What Families Need to Do in August 2026 for College Applications #collegeapps #collegeadmissions

August is a big month for college applications, testing, financial aid, and student athletes. Here are the major August updates families should know.

The Common Application rolls over on August 1. Students will need to reopen it on August 1 and check their information. The University of California application also opens on August 1, so students applying to UC schools can start working on that application too.

For testing, families should look ahead now. The next SAT dates are Saturday, September 12, 2026 and Saturday, October 3, 2026. The next ACT dates are September 19, October 17, and December 12, 2026. If you are planning on taking either register as soon as possible, these fill up quickly.   Students should check registration deadlines early so they do not miss the test date they want.

There is also an important NCAA update for student athletes. Starting with the new eligibility model, Division I student athletes may have up to five years of eligibility. The NCAA is moving away from the old redshirt structure, so student athletes should talk with their coach, counselor, or athletic advisor about how this affects their timeline.

Families should also pay attention to Pell Grant changes. Pell Grant eligibility is becoming more limited in some situations. Students who have non-federal grants or scholarships that already cover the full cost of attendance may not qualify for a Pell Grant for that year. Families with higher assets may also need to pay close attention to how their FAFSA information is calculated.

August is the month to get organized. Open the applications, check testing dates, understand what financial aid changes may affect your family, and make sure student athletes know what is changing with NCAA eligibility.

If you need help staying on top of the college application process this year, reach out.

Let College Help Squad be a part of your process.