If you’re asking yourself this question, you probably already know that the final months of your senior year aren't traditionally the best time to apply to college, especially for the performing and visual arts. Most of the applying and auditioning happened in the fall and winter, and the deciding begins in the spring. But for one reason or another, you’re just not ready to decide. And you’re afraid you might be too late to broaden your choices. Well, guess what? You’re not.
There are a lot of reasons you would want to continue applying to colleges in the spring, and you’re not alone. Just like you, plenty of students find themselves wanting more college options come March and April. Maybe you just discovered a new program that sounds like a great fit, or are second-guessing the programs you’ve been accepted to. Perhaps you’ve recently decided you want to pursue the arts and want to know your options. Or maybe you just haven’t been accepted to a school where you actually want to go. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of options available so that you can continue applying to college through the spring.
Later deadlines
Plenty of arts programs have deadlines well into the summer. These are schools that want to make sure everyone has had a chance to apply to and learn about their program before cutting off applications. These programs are perfect for someone who’s recently decided to pursue the arts. Typically they have a less intense application process and smaller class sizes.
Rolling deadlines
When a program has a rolling deadline, it means that they will continue to accept applications until they’re full. Although there might be a deadline listed that has already passed, you can still apply. If you aren’t sure if a program offers admissions based on a rolling deadline, reach out. It certainly never hurts to ask.
Exceptions
Although this is never a guarantee, some programs do make exceptions for certain applicants. If you have your heart set on a particular program that has already closed their application, contact department faculty or an admissions coordinator to see if they would make an exception for you. If they will, you need to make sure you have all your application materials ready in advance; you probably won’t have a lot of time.
So, long story short, you’re not too late, but you probably should start moving pretty quickly if you want to get your applications in. Applying to college in the spring of your senior year might not be the most traditional timing, but it doesn’t mean you should give up. Keep applying until you find a program where you’ll be happy and successful, even if that means auditioning through June. It will be worth it. After all, this place will be your home for the next two to four years. And there's no place like home.
