What’s the Buzz Beyond November 1? What Comes Next in the College Admissions Journey
For many families, November 1 feels like crossing the finish line. Applications are submitted, essays are finalized, and your senior can finally take a well-deserved breath. But while that first major deadline has passed, there’s still plenty to look forward to (and a few important next steps to stay on top of before the semester and holiday season begin).
1. Turn your attention to financial aid.
Now is the time to complete the FAFSA and, if required, the CSS Profile. These forms open the door to need-based aid, federal loans, and sometimes even merit scholarships. It’s also helpful to understand the difference between merit aid (awarded for academic or extracurricular excellence) and need-based aid (based on a family’s financial situation). Once your Student Aid Report (SAR) is processed, review it carefully for accuracy as small errors can delay awards later.
2. Keep an eye out for merit and scholarship updates.
Some colleges automatically consider students for merit aid with their applications, while others require separate forms or interviews. Staying organized through a shared family calendar or our Simply Admissions Application Tracker, which can help ensure no deadlines slip through the cracks. Additionally, each institution’s individual application status page will include a checklist to make sure that their application is complete for that particular school.
3. Prepare for decision season.
Between December and March, most students will begin receiving decisions. For those admitted, admitted student days in the spring are a great way to get a feel for campus life, meet future classmates, and compare financial aid offers. Remember, enrollment deposits are typically due by May 1, so families should plan to review and, if needed, appeal financial aid packages well before that date.
4. Reflect, recharge, and plan ahead.
This is a time to celebrate how far your student has come and to prepare for what’s next. The admissions process is dynamic, with each year bringing new priorities, data trends, and opportunities for insight. At Simply Admissions, our data-driven reports and holistic review strategies help families make confident, informed choices as they move from applying to deciding.
So, take a deep breath, enjoy the holidays, and know that you’re on the home stretch. The hardest part is behind you… and the best is yet to come!
