Deadline Tracker

Track application and financial-aid deadlines for your saved schools, sorted into one chronological timeline.

Aid Timing Tip

The FAFSA must open by October 1 each year, and lately opens earlier — the 2027–28 form opened September 23, 2026. Many state and institutional aid programs are first-come, first-served — submitting early can mean more aid, regardless of your deadline.

Your state's FAFSA deadlines

Pick your home state to see its deadlines for state grants and scholarships — often months earlier than the federal one.

From Federal Student Aid's state deadline list (studentaid.gov), checked Oct 13, 2026. Dates change every year — confirm with your state's aid agency.

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Save schools with the star on their College Finder cards or a Cost Finder report, then come back here to track their application and financial-aid deadlines.

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Next Steps

A checklist of the standard financial-aid and enrollment steps. Check them off as you go — progress is saved in this browser.

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Applying for aid

Submit the FAFSA

It opens by October 1 each year, sometimes earlier (the 2027–28 form opened September 23, 2026). Many aid programs are first-come, first-served — file early.

Submit the CSS Profile, if any of your schools require it

Some private colleges use it in addition to the FAFSA for their own aid.

Complete verification if your FAFSA is selected

Respond promptly with the documents the school requests, or your aid can be delayed.

When award letters arrive

Enter each school's real award numbers

Compare the actual letter against this tool's estimate. Award Letter Check →

Compare your award letters side by side

See 4-year out-of-pocket, aid coverage, and loan payments together. Family Report →

Appeal if a school's aid falls short

A respectful, factual appeal can recover meaningful aid. Aid Appeal Letter →

Accept or decline your federal loans

Borrow only what you need — you can accept part of what's offered.

Committing & enrolling

Submit your enrollment/housing deposit before its deadline

Deposits are usually non-refundable and reserve your spot and housing.

Set up a tuition payment plan if you need one

Many schools let you spread the balance over monthly installments.

Complete entrance counseling and sign your loan agreement (MPN)

Required before federal loans disburse.

Confirm dates with your school once you've committed.