Free Resources
Welcome to College Bird's Free Resources page! We are dedicated to empowering students and families on their journey to college by providing expert guidance and valuable tools—absolutely free. Whether you're just beginning to explore your college options or are deep into the application process, our free resources are designed to help you every step of the way.
University of California (UC)
Navigating the UC application process can be overwhelming. Our UC application resources include:
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If you’re a current high school junior planning to apply to the University of California (UC) for Fall 2026, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the application timeline. The process spans an entire year, with key deadlines to keep in mind. Use this guide to stay on track and submit a strong application on time.
UC Application Opens: August 1, 2025
Starting August 1, the UC application becomes available online. This is your opportunity to begin working on your application, drafting your personal insight responses, and gathering any necessary documents. While you can start early, keep in mind that submission does not begin until October.
UC Application Submission Period: October 1 – December 1, 2025
The UC system allows applicants to submit their completed applications between October 1 and December 1. Unlike some universities that use rolling admissions, UC campuses review all applications after the deadline, so there’s no advantage to submitting early. Take your time to ensure accuracy and completeness.
For Fall 2026 applicants only, the UC system has extended the submission deadline to December 1, 2025, instead of the usual November 30 deadline. Your application must be submitted no later than midnight on Monday, December 1 to be considered.
Admission Notifications: March – April 2026
Once applications are submitted, UC campuses begin their review process. Decision release timelines vary slightly by campus:
First-year applicants (freshmen) typically receive their admission decisions in March 2026.
Transfer applicants usually receive decisions in April 2026.
If admitted, you will need to decide which UC campus is the right fit for you before the enrollment deadline.
Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) Deadlines
If you are offered admission, you must formally accept your spot at your chosen UC campus by submitting your Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) before the following deadlines:
May 1, 2026: First-year (freshman) students
June 1, 2026: Transfer students
This step confirms your intent to enroll, allowing UC campuses to finalize their incoming class.
Final Steps and Planning Ahead
The UC application process is structured with clear deadlines, giving applicants time to prepare, submit, and make informed decisions about their college future. By staying on top of these key dates and carefully preparing your application, you can maximize your chances of gaining admission to the UC campus of your choice.
For additional details, visit the UC admissions website and ensure you meet all requirements specific to your situation. Best of luck with your application!
Download our UC Application Timeline guide.
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Scholarships
Finding the right scholarship can make a significant difference in funding your education. Our scholarship resources include:
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Search Strategically: Discover how to identify and target scholarships that align with your academic achievements, interests, and background.
Prepare Standout Applications: Get expert advice on crafting compelling personal statements, organizing your resume, and gathering strong recommendation letters.
Organize Your Process: Utilize checklists and timelines to manage deadlines and ensure no scholarship opportunity is missed.
Gain Insider Insights: Benefit from the experiences and tips shared by college admissions experts and past scholarship winners.
Download our free guide, "Scholarship Success: A Step-by-Step Strategy," to start building a winning scholarship application plan.
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Finding the right scholarships can be overwhelming, which is why our curated scholarship database is here to help.
Visit our Scholarship Database today to find a list of common scholarship websites.
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Download our Scholarship Essay Advice for tips on writing compelling scholarship essays and personal statements that stand out.
Financial Aid
Navigating the complexities of financial aid is crucial for a successful college experience. Our financial aid section provides:
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Download our Step-by-Step Guide for detailed instructions for completing the FAFSA and CSS Profile.
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Our Understanding Your Options guide provides insights into different types of financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs.
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Our Maximizing Your Aid guide provides tips and strategies to help you secure the best possible financial aid package and reduce student debt.
Additional Resources
Beyond scholarships and financial aid, here are a few free tools to support your college planning journey:
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View our Application Timeline Templates to help you keep track of all your application deadlines and milestones.
