Skip to main content

Request info

When is the best time to submit your application?

A woman sits on a bench outside and works on a smart tablet, completing an online application.

Read our advice on how far in advance you should turn in all documents

Editor’s note: This article was most recently updated on Feb. 1, 2024.

It’s never too late to continue your educational journey and earn your degree online. At Oregon State University Ecampus, we’ve had students graduate at age 24, age 74 and every age in between

Time is on your side, and as you consider applying to learn online with Oregon State, we want to offer you some sage advice so it remains that way. Find your student type below, then read about the recommended or specific deadlines.

Undergraduate students who want to earn a degree online

If you’re an undergraduate transfer student or someone entering their first year of college, you can start in any of Oregon State’s four quarterly terms. This chart shows future term start dates and the corresponding application deadlines recommended by our team of enrollment services specialists at OSU Ecampus.

Term Deadline Classes start
Summer 2024 May 1, 2024 June 17, 2024
Fall 2024 Aug. 1, 2024 Sept. 25, 2024
Winter 2025 Nov. 1, 2024 Jan. 6, 2025
Spring 2025 Feb. 1, 2025 March 31, 2025

Suggested application deadline only.

* June 17, 2024 is the first day of summer intersession. Summer classes range from one to 11 weeks in length and have various start dates.
View a complete list of summer deadlines.

It’s important to give yourself time to complete the online application and gather supporting documents, such as official transcripts from previous institutions. Many future students tell us how eager they are to begin taking classes online as soon as possible. Meeting these suggested deadlines will ensure that you can start when you want to.

Applying by these deadlines also will allow Oregon State’s Office of Admissions enough time to evaluate your application and transcripts. It also builds in time for you to register for classes and order and receive course materials.

A note on postbaccalaureate students

The recommended deadlines for undergraduate students above are also the required application deadlines for postbaccalaureate students — students who already have a bachelor’s degree and want to earn another. However, some academic colleges at OSU set their own deadlines for certain postbacc programs. Visit the Office of Admissions website for more details.

Nondegree (visiting) students who want to take a few classes

If you’re a nondegree-seeking student, we recommend that you submit your online application materials at least two weeks prior to the start of a term. Course capacity is often limited, and applying by the suggested deadline can help ensure your readiness and ability to succeed in the online classroom.

Check the schedule of classes for course availability before you apply.

Term Deadline Classes start
Summer 2024 June 3, 2024 June 17, 2024
Fall 2024 Sept. 11, 2024 Sept. 25, 2024
Winter 2025 Dec. 23, 2024 Jan. 6, 2025
Spring 2025 March 17, 2025 March 31, 2025

Suggested application deadline only.

* June 17, 2024 is the first day of summer intersession. Summer classes range from one to 11 weeks in length and have various start dates.
We encourage nondegree-seeking Ecampus students to apply a minimum of two weeks before their desired session’s start date. This may be one to nine weeks later than the suggested application deadline of June 3 above. View a complete list of summer deadlines.

Graduate students pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree

Application deadlines differ by program for graduate students, and admission is determined by the department offering your program of interest. Find program-specific admission requirements and deadlines at the pages linked above.

Use our other helpful resources as you prepare to apply

Between the Ecampus website and the knowledge of our enrollment specialists, there is a treasure trove of information available to help you confidently navigate the online application process.

Browse our how-to-apply guide for details on things such as:

  • how your previously earned credits might transfer
  • applying for financial aid
  • how to use military tuition benefits
  • the student support system for Ecampus students.

And remember: We’re eager to answer your questions and help you keep moving forward on your educational journey.


Discover more about learning online with nationally ranked Oregon State University.

Request information

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *