Hi, Reader!

We’re just about a week out from Nov. 1 deadlines, which means I know there’s a lot of work being done right now. As early deadlines continue getting closer, I just wanted to send a few quick reminders to help keep everyone’s stress level (slightly) lower:

1. Don’t panic about “missing” materials in your application. (But keep an eye on them.)

Here’s what I’ve been seeing (and hearing): For most schools, your application itself must be submitted by the deadline — but supporting materials like test scores, resumes, and letters of recommendation can often come in a few days later. For example, UNC’s Early Action deadline was Oct. 15, but they accept supporting materials and test scores through Nov. 7.

It’s totally normal for test scores and letters of recommendation to arrive separately — colleges have systems for matching materials to your file. Just make sure you’re tracking what’s required for each school (especially things like STARS or Courses & Grades reports, which are sometimes submitted through the portal afterward) and when they’re due. When in doubt, reach out to the school itself and ask when supporting materials are due — and then follow up as needed.

2. Start filling out your Common App now, if you haven’t.

Even if you’re not ready to hit “submit,” start entering your info. Some schools (looking at you, USC and Rice) unlock extra essays once you select majors or programs — and you don’t want to be surprised by a hidden question when you’re running on caffeine and panic at 11:59 p.m. on deadline day.

3. Proofread your essay (like, really proofread it).

My favorite trick: read your essay out loud — with emotion! Or use Word’s Read Aloud feature and listen for clunky phrasing, missing words, or tone shifts. You’ll catch things your eyes skip over.

4. Avoid “lateral moves” in your essay.

This means spending hours on changes that don’t actually improve your essay — like swapping “said” for “stated.” Focus instead on what matters most: showing your qualities, character, and growth. And if you’re showing those in your essay, then you’re off to a great start. (Here’s a great College Essay Guy article on lateral moves if you want to go deeper.)

You’ve got this. One step, one deadline, one essay at a time.

Happy writing,

Julia

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