We don’t want you to miss a single deadline in the scholarship process, especially the November 1 early action deadline. We've included important dates to make note of while navigating the admission and scholarship process.
Timing is everything
August 1
First day to apply for admission and scholarships. Incoming first-year applicants may use the Common Application or the Apply IU Application.
October
Complete and submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many scholarship and financial aid options require you to have a FAFSA on file.
November 1
Early action (non-binding) admission deadline. To be considered for IU academic scholarships, you must submit a complete application for admission by November 1.
January 15
Deadline to submit new or updated test scores for additional scholarship consideration. Students who meet the November 1 deadline and wish to have new or updated test scores considered will have until January 15 to confirm their preference and self-report their test scores.
Early February
Students who have submitted a FAFSA will receive their complete Financial Aid Notification packet in the mail, including any scholarships based on review of FAFSA information. Financial Aid Notification packets will continue to be sent as IU receives FAFSA information from the government.
February 15
IU Scholarships Application deadline. The deadline for all incoming students to submit their IU Scholarships Application is February 15, 2026 by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.
We recommend completing your FAFSA in time for IU to receive your information by February 15 to be considered for scholarships that require you to have a FAFSA on file.
April 1
All scholarships for incoming students will be awarded. Students should use information and amounts reflected in their Financial Aid Summary when making enrollment decisions.
May 1
Deadline to reserve your space at IU. If you are starting at IU in fall, you must declare your intent to enroll by May 1. Your nonrefundable $100 deposit will be credited toward your first-semester tuition expenses.
All students who apply by the November 1 early action (non-binding) deadline will receive the highest scholarship consideration, regardless of whether or not they choose to have test scores considered as part of their application.