Skip to Main Content Skip to Footer Toggle Navigation Menu

Dates & Deadlines

There are advantages to every application round, so choose what’s right for you.

Find your application date

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

  • Application Deadline Sunday, November 1
  • Priority for Financial Aid Monday, November 9
  • Decision Notification Sunday, December 6
  • Applicant Reply Date Monday, December 21

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

  • Application Deadline Sunday, November 1
  • Priority for Financial Aid Monday, November 9
  • Decision Notification Saturday, December 19
  • Applicant Reply Date Saturday, May 1

Early Decision II: When you just weren’t quite ready for ED I, but you still know Mac is it.

  • Application Deadline Friday, January 1
  • Priority for Financial Aid Friday, January 8
  • Decision Notification Sunday, January 24
  • Applicant Reply Date Monday, February 8

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

  • Application Deadline Friday, January 15
  • Priority for Financial Aid Friday, January 22
  • Decision Notification Sunday, March 14
  • Applicant Reply Date Saturday, May 1

Applying as a QuestBridge Scholar? 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 Monday, March 15
  • Priority for Financial Aid Monday, March 15
  • Decision Notification Sunday, May 2
  • Applicant Reply Date Sunday, May 30
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.