Dates & Deadlines
There are advantages to every application round, so choose what’s right for you.
If the wildfires in Southern California impact you or your school, and you have an active application or plan to apply in the Regular Decision round, we are here to assist you. The Regular Decision deadline of January 15, 2025 is extended to February 1, 2025 for all affected applicants. Additionally, we understand that some situations may require further flexibility—please contact [email protected] to discuss your specific circumstances or any additional accommodations you may need.
CSS Note: Due to scheduled maintenance, the CSS Profile and IDOC service will be unavailable the evening of January 22 through the morning of January 23. If you are applying via Regular Decision and attempting to complete financial aid items on January 22, please try again within a few days. This will not impact your application to Macalester.
Find your application date
Early Decision I: When you already know Macalester is the one!
- Application Deadline November 1
- Priority for Financial Aid November 8
- Decision Notification December 8
- Applicant Reply Date December 22
Early Action: When you’re ready to apply now, but still considering your choices.
- Application Deadline November 1
- Priority for Financial Aid November 8
- Decision Notification December 21
- Applicant Reply Date May 1
Early Decision II: When you just weren’t quite ready for ED I, but you still know Mac is it.
- Application Deadline January 1
- Priority for Financial Aid January 8
- Decision Notification January 26
- Applicant Reply Date February 9
Regular Decision: When you appreciate a few extra weeks to apply. This is your deadline!
- Application Deadline January 15
- Priority for Financial Aid January 22
- Decision Notification March 16
- Applicant Reply Date May 1
Applying as a QuestBridge Scholar? The deadline for that application process is September 26, 2024. Visit questbridge.org to learn more.
Transfer Students
All transfer application materials for both admissions and financial aid are due by the deadline below.
U.S. and International Transfer Applicants
- Application Deadline April 1
- Priority for Financial Aid April 1
- Decision Notification May 4
- Applicant Reply Date May 25
Early Decision and Early Action
Hearing college decisions before spring can ease stress in your senior year. Read more about how it works and why applying early is a great option.