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Dates & Deadlines

Students have different preferences when it comes to completing their application. There are advantages to every deadline, so choose what’s right for you.

Deposit Day Extensions for Admitted Applicants Applying for Need-Based Aid

We acknowledge that the 2024-2025 FAFSA processing timeline may create situations where admitted students are unable to select a college by the May 1 National Reply Day. For applicants to Macalester College in both the Early Action and Regular Decision rounds who have expressed an interest in need-based financial aid, we will offer the opportunity to request an extension to the May 1 deadline. This extension allows for a thorough comparison of need-based financial aid packages from other colleges and universities.

All admitted applicants applying for need-based financial aid are eligible for a tuition deposit deadline extension. Upon request, applicants will receive a May 15, 2024 deadline to submit their tuition deposit. The extension request form is found in the Applicant Portal.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the extension process, please contact [email protected]. We are here to assist you!

Find your application date

Early Decision I: When you already know Macalester is the one!

  • Application Deadline November 1
  • Priority for Financial Aid November 6
  • Decision from Macalester December 3
  • Applicant’s Reply Date December 18

Early Action: When you’re ready to apply now, but still considering your choices.

  • Application Deadline November 1
  • Priority for Financial Aid November 6
  • Decision from Macalester December 20
  • Applicant’s 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 from Macalester January 28
  • Applicant’s Reply Date February 15

Regular Decision: When you appreciate a few extra weeks to apply. This is your deadline!

  • Application Deadline January 15
  • Priority for Financial Aid January 23
  • Decision from Macalester March 17
  • Applicant’s Reply Date* May 1

*See above notes about Deposit Day extension for admitted Early Action and Regular Decision Applicants.

Applying as a QuestBridge Scholar? The deadline for that application process is September 26, 2023. 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
  • Decision from Macalester May 1
  • Applicant’s Reply Date May 15
Macalester Early Decision Alice M

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.