Utah college applications 2025: 10 tips for parents – KSL.com
In the midst of essays, transcripts and online forms, college applications can feel like a maze. The process might be overwhelming for parents and students, especially when trying to keep track of deadlines and fees.
It may feel like you need a roadmap, but a little planning goes a long way. If your student is a senior in Utah, here are the key things you need to know for Utah’s 2025–2026 college application season and tips to keep things on track.
1. Know when college applications open for the class of 2026
If you only keep track of one thing, make it deadlines. Timing is critical when it comes to Utah college applications. Every university sets its own schedule, and missing an early action or priority date can mean losing out on more scholarship money.
For first-year students starting fall 2026, here are the college application deadlines in Utah:
University of Utah:
- Applications open: Aug. 1
- Early action deadline: Dec. 1
- Final application deadline: April 1, 2026
- Merit scholarship deadline: Dec. 1
- Rolling admissions
- Priority deadline: March 1, 2026
- Regular deadline: Aug. 1, 2026
- Priority scholarship deadline: Dec. 1
- Applications open: Aug. 1
- Priority deadline: Nov. 3
- Regular deadline: Dec. 15
- Scholarship deadline: Feb. 1, 2026
- Applications open: Aug. 1
- Application deadline: Aug. 1, 2026
- General scholarship deadline: Feb. 1, 2026
- Rolling admissions begin: July 1
- Applications accepted until the start of the semester (Aug. 26, 2026)
- Priority scholarship deadline: Dec. 1
- Rolling admissions
- Applications accepted until the start of the semester (Sept. 2, 2026)
- Priority scholarship deadline: Dec. 1
Utah Tech University (formerly Dixie State University):
- Applications open: Aug. 1
- Applications accepted until the first day of the semester
- Scholarship deadline: March 1, 2026
Other schools may have slightly different timelines, so always check each university’s admissions page for college application deadlines in 2025–2026.
Tip: Create a spreadsheet or calendar with each school’s opening date, priority deadline and final submission date to prevent stress.
2. Save money on college application fees
In the past, parents had to plan for application fees of $30 to $65 per school. While this may not seem like much individually, applying to multiple colleges can quickly add up.
The good news is that if your student is applying to a public university in Utah, you likely won’t pay anything. In 2023, the Utah Board of Higher Education waived all application fees for Utah college students.
Private schools or schools outside of Utah may still have fees. BYU, for example, does charge an application fee, but students can often qualify for fee waivers through:
- ACT/SAT fee waivers
- High school counselors
- Utah College Applications Week (many schools waive fees during this event)
Tip: Talk to your student’s high school counselor. They often have access to codes or resources that can help you save money.
3. Prepare required materials early
Most Utah universities require:
- High school transcripts
- ACT or SAT scores (many are test-optional)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal essays
Tip: Encourage your students to start early. Recommendation letters and transcripts require time, and essays can be drafted well in advance of deadlines.
4. Stay up-to-date on test-optional policies
For 2026, test-optional policies will continue at many Utah universities, meaning students can apply without submitting ACT or SAT scores.
- The University of Utah, Utah State, Weber State, SUU, UVU and Utah Tech all allow test-optional applications.
- BYU still encourages test scores and may weigh them more heavily.
Tip: Even if not required, strong scores may help with scholarships or competitive programs.
5. Don’t miss financial aid and scholarship deadlines
Applications get your student in the door, but scholarships and aid keep the door open. FAFSA opens on Oct. 1 for the 2026–2027 academic year. Aim to submit as early as possible, especially for need-based aid or state-funded scholarships.
- Utah offers state scholarships through the Utah Board of Education.
- Most universities have their own scholarship portals, many of which are tied to early admission deadlines.
Tip: Block out one evening in October to complete the FAFSA. Gather tax info ahead of time so it doesn’t become a stress marathon.
6. Use Utah-specific programs
Utah has some unique resources that make the application process easier:
- Utah College Applications Week (UCAW): Held each fall in high schools to give seniors hands-on help with applications.
- Guaranteed Admission Program: Every Utah high school student now qualifies for admission to at least one state institution.
7. Scholarships for Utah universities
Many Utah universities award merit scholarships — no extra application required. These scholarships are often based on GPA and test scores, but the bar isn’t as high as you think. For example, Utah Tech offers $1,000 for a 3.0 GPA, regardless of ACT scores.
Some statewide scholarships to consider:
- Utah’s Opportunity Scholarship: Up to $1,000 per semester for four semesters for students with a 3.3 GPA or higher who complete three AP or concurrent enrollment classes in math, science and language arts.
- Utah Promise Grant: A need-based scholarship covering the cost of attendance at most Utah colleges and universities.
- First Credential Scholarship (Formerly PRIME): Up to $500 for students who take concurrent enrollment courses, CTE courses or youth apprenticeship.
8. Apply to multiple colleges more easily with an app
Applying to more than one college is a smart move, but it requires a significant amount of time and energy. Many parents and students find that using an application platform can simplify the process of managing their child’s education. With just one account, students can apply to multiple schools simultaneously.
Some of the most common tools students in Utah use:
- Common App: Accepted by 1,000+ schools nationwide, including some in Utah. Students fill out one application to send to multiple schools, then customize as needed.
- Coalition for College: Another platform that helps streamline applications, especially for schools focused on access and affordability.
9. Provide support without taking over
College applications are your student’s responsibility, but they often need a nudge. Parents can:
- Proofread essays (without rewriting them)
- Help track deadlines
- Offer encouragement
Think of yourself as the coach, not the player.
10. Stay connected with counselors and advisors
High school counselors are the unsung heroes of application season. They can:
- Confirm deadlines
- Explain fee waivers
- Suggest scholarships
Tip: Schedule a meeting with your student’s counselor early in their senior year.
College applications may feel like a maze now, but every form, essay and deadline brings your student one step closer to their future. With planning and support, the Utah class of 2026 will not just get through the process; they will be ready to thrive in the next chapter of their education.
