Still Time to Apply to Colleges for Fall 2021

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) has released a list of colleges that still have room for students seeking admission for the upcoming fall semester. May 1st is the national response deadline for most colleges in the U.S. By that date, students must choose the college they will be attending in the fall and pay a deposit. Since most students apply to a multitude of colleges, it’s impossible for colleges to know for sure how many students will actually enroll until the reply deadline rolls around.  After the response deadline, colleges that have not met their target enrollment are anxious to accept additional students in order to bring in the tuition money necessary to keep on budget.  

Often, even well-qualified students are not accepted to the college of their dreams.  Other times, students change their minds.  As the time to leave home for college approaches, students sometimes wish they had chosen a school closer to home.  Some students fall prey to basic procrastination and find themselves approaching high school graduation without a plan for the fall. This year, for the second time, there is an additional set of concerns as students make their college decisions without knowing for sure whether they will be able to live on their chosen college campus and attend classes in person. 

Fortunately, the NACAC has just released a list of hundreds of colleges that are still accepting applications for the fall semester of 2021.  Included are six New Jersey schools that have openings for both incoming freshmen and transfer students and are still offering housing and financial aid. They are Bloomfield College, Caldwell University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Georgian Court College, Rider University, and St. Peter’s University. Popular schools in nearby states with availability include Penn State University, Quinnipiac University (CT), and The New School (NY).

The key, at this point, is to act promptly.  Students who are interested in any particular college should immediately contact its admissions department to find out exactly what materials need to be submitted.  Students should also inquire about the availability of merit-based and need-based financial aid. After meeting all requirements, as quickly as possible, students should follow-up with an admissions officer and reiterate their strong desire to attend that particular college.  An acceptance letter may appear in their mail (or email) sooner than expected!  

Susan Alaimo is the founder and director of Collegebound Review that, for the past 25 years, has offered PSAT/SAT® preparation and private college advising by Ivy League educated instructors. Visit CollegeboundReview.com or call 908-369-5362