200+ Colleges Still Accepting Applications

This has been an unusual college admissions year. The initial issues of the new FASFA launch, and subsequent delay in processing times, have required many students to make their college decisions much later than typical. If you find yourself among one of those students who has still not made a final decision, you’re not alone. And fortunately, there are still over 200 colleges accepting students.

Colleges Still Accepting Colleges

Each year, the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) releases a list of colleges that are still accepting admissions applications. These colleges range from large, public universities to small, private colleges, meaning there is a size and fit for every inquiring student. In addition to viewing schools that are still open, students will be able to see whether the school is accepting freshman or transfer applications as well as financial aid and housing availability. You can also search through the list by state and country.

Next Steps: Applying to Colleges Late

It may seem as if the deadlines for college applications are very strict; however, colleges are still seeking students to fill their incoming, first-year quota. At the same time, if you find a college that you’re interested in, you need to act fast as spots may be limited.

Search for Colleges Still Accepting Students

If you’ve decided to attend college but aren’t sure where to commit, begin with NACAC’s list of colleges still accepting applications. Again, you can filter results by location, freshmen vs. transfer spots open, and financial aid and housing availability. If there is a particular school that you’re interested in that is not listed, it may be worth checking their social media accounts for a post about openings. Colleges are not required to report their availability to NACAC, and further, this list is comprised of only NACAC member colleges.

Contact Colleges Directly

Once you have identified a school, or schools, that you’re interested in, you need to reach out as soon as possible. Again, open spots at these colleges may be extremely limited. Each listing features an email or phone contact that students can utilize. If you’re curious about a college that is not listed, you can inquire with their admissions department on whether they’ve filled their incoming, first-year class.

Complete Financial Aid Forms

If you haven’t already, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You will not be eligible for financial aid at any institution unless you've submitted this form. This can be done while you’re reaching out to colleges. Many colleges have supplemental financial aid forms that you will need to complete as well. As you go through the college application process, make sure you’re asking questions about financial aid and submitting the necessary paperwork.

Continue the Search for Scholarships

Finally, once you’ve submitted your applications, start – or continue – the scholarship search. There is no seasonality to when scholarships are available. New awards become available year-round. If you don’t have one already, complete a Fastweb profile and be as detailed as possible. Taking time to fill out each component ensures that we’re matching you to all the scholarships for which you qualify in our database. The scholarship search and application processes should not be limited to your high school years. There are thousands of scholarships for college students. Make sure you’re setting goals and applying for scholarships through your senior year of college. Remember, every dollar you win through scholarships is one less dollar you’ll have to pay for college – or pay back after graduation.