The University of Vermont will extend its early application and spring semester application deadline from Nov. 1 to Nov. 11, due to widely reported technical challenges students and school counselors are experiencing with the new version of the online Common Application.

UVM said its goal is to ensure that students applying to the University of Vermont will not be penalized because of technical problems with the application. Extending the deadline will allow students to have additional time to work with the new application and avoid the high volume use that is expected around Nov. 1.

"More than 2,800 students have successfully submitted their applications to the University of Vermont to date,” said Beth Wiser, UVM’s director of admissions. “This deadline extension will ensure that all students who wish to apply early action or for spring semester admission have time to do so while navigating a new tool. We recognize that the college application process can be stressful, therefore, it is important to UVM to acknowledge the challenges faced by some students currently using the Common Application."

Students may submit their applications on the Common Application website through the end of the day on Nov. 11. The application fee waiver for students applying early action for fall 2014 admission is still valid through Nov. 11. Students are also reminded that supporting information for the application such as transcripts, test scores or letters of recommendation may be sent after the application deadline.

Admissions staff suggest that, although issues with the Common Application are being addressed, applicants take the following actions to minimize any problems that may arise:

• Don't wait until the deadline to complete the Common Application;
• Use school counselors as resources and explore college or university websites to check for deadline extensions and tips for completing the Common Application;
• Make use of the Common Application Help Center at www.commonapp.org for help with frequently asked questions.