Now Is the Time to Work on Regular Decision Applications

Early Decision applications are in, and admissions officers are reviewing them now. It may feel like the only thing left to do is wait — but this is exactly the moment when Regular Decision (RD) applications deserve your full attention.

Most RD deadlines fall on January 1, which is much closer than it seems. Between finishing the semester, preparing for finals, and navigating holiday plans, students often underestimate how quickly December passes. Starting now is the difference between a calm submission process and a rushed one.

Every year, we see the same pattern: students put enormous energy into their ED application and then pause — only to find themselves scrambling after mid-December decisions. If they’re deferred or not admitted, they suddenly have less than two weeks to finalize multiple RD applications. That’s a tight window to produce high-quality essays, organize materials, and complete every school’s requirements.

The most time-intensive part of RD is the supplemental writing. While each essay is short, strong supplements require self-reflection, clear thinking, and revision time. Students need space to draft, step away, return with fresh eyes, and refine. Rushing essays rarely leads to the thoughtful, focused writing selective colleges expect.

Students should also ensure that counselors have enough time to review essays, submit transcripts, and finalize school materials — and that recommenders know when everything is due. These steps take coordination, and starting early preserves both quality and calm.

If you need support on supplemental essays or overall RD strategy, Ivy Link is here to help. Our advisors work closely with students to shape focused, reflective writing and ensure every part of the application aligns with their academic story and goals. But as always, timing matters — reach out before deadlines are too close.