When to apply?

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When to apply?

by midgely » Wed Jul 01, 2009 2:28 pm
Hi Consultants!

I plan to apply during the first "round" for Columbia, which closes on January 7th, 2010. My question is: Is there any advantage to sending my application in much before the deadline, since, according to the website, the review process doesn't even begin until the 7th? I am anxious to get my apps done, so I would like to send everything in by November, but then I'd worry that something awesome would happen to me that I'd want to highlight in my app, and it would be too late to change it. Is it better to wait until the deadline just in case I want to edit my app? Or is it best to just make my best case, send it off, then not stress myself out about it?

Thanks in advance for your answer.

Cheers,
Michelle
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by Lisa Anderson » Thu Jul 02, 2009 5:37 pm
Dear Michelle,

You should submit your application when it is finished and you feel it is the best possible application package. I think it is better to submit prior to the deadline as most schools will start to evaluate applications as they come in. While it might not get you a decision sooner (but it could), it does demonstrate commitment and initiative to get your application in early. If something in your background does change after you submit, then it will give you something great to talk about in your interview.

Good luck,
Lisa
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