Read our advice on how far in advance you should turn in all documents
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 OSU Ecampus enrollment services specialists.
| Term | Deadline† | Classes start |
|---|---|---|
| Spring 2025 | Feb. 1, 2025 | March 31, 2025 |
| Summer 2025 | May 1, 2025 | June 16, 2025 |
| Fall 2025 | Aug. 1, 2025 | Sept. 24, 2025 |
| Winter 2026 | Nov. 1, 2025 | Jan. 5, 2026 |
† Suggested application deadline only.
* June 16, 2025 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 Ecampus schedule of classes for course availability before you apply.
| Term | Deadline† | Classes start |
|---|---|---|
| Spring 2025 | March 17, 2025 | March 31, 2025 |
| Summer 2025 | June 2, 2025 | June 16, 2025 |
| Fall 2025 | Sept. 10, 2025 | Sept. 24, 2025 |
| Winter 2026 | Dec. 22, 2025 | Jan. 5, 2026 |
† Suggested application deadline only.
* June 16, 2025 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 2 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.
Read our tips on preparing for enrollment, then 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.
