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Why July Is the Perfect Time to Plan Your College Journey

July 9, 2026

By Randy Hernandez

If you’re anything like me, you like to take your time with decisions, waiting for the final moments to make a choice.

For recent high school graduates, July might feel like those final moments of decision-making when it comes to committing to college.

Not so long ago, you liked posts and shared stories of friends and peers who had committed to their dream schools. Now, you find yourself feeling like you’ve missed the train. Well, what if I were to tell you that July is an excellent time to start considering Fresno Pacific University?

The Ideal Time

Fresno Pacific is unique when it comes to deadlines. Most schools have application deadlines in December, whereas FPU’s is in August. This means that even though you’re making plans to go up to the lake or spend the weekend at the beach, you are under no pressure to meet an application deadline at FPU in July. Now, obviously don’t wait until the start of classes! But also, don’t feel like time’s run out. You have enough time to fill out the free application and send over your official high school and/or college transcripts. Once all pieces are received, it takes about a week or two to hear back on your admission decision.

What You Can Do Right Now

If you’re not one hundred percent sure, or want to start somewhere, schedule a meeting with one of our admission counselors by calling our office at 559-453-2039 or emailing visit@fresno.edu. A visit to campus can answer all your questions and concerns and surely set you up for the application process. You have nothing but time!

Some of the more practical steps you can take are applying online at fresno.edu/apply, getting your transcripts ordered, talking through housing options (resident or commuter), and looking at any scholarship opportunities. Your transcripts are accessible through your high school administration or counseling office. All you have to do is ask them to send them electronically to FPU at trans.evaluator@fresno.edu. Not sure about living on campus? Talk to one of our financial aid advisors to look at cost differences and benefits. While you’re there, you can also ask about scholarships, one of which is automatically awarded upon admission!

It’s Not Too Late!

July is at the heart of the summer, full of fun trips, activities in the sun and some nice downtime. While school may seem like it’s out of your reach because of the timing, the reality is the opposite. Fresno Pacific offers flexible deadlines and a strong support team that will help you every step of the way. In just a couple of weeks, we can help you apply, figure out finances and get you registered for classes! You’ve done your waiting and have contemplated all the possibilities. Now, it’s time to take advantage of this opportunity and join the Sunbird Flock!

Learn More This Summer

Need to learn a little more about Fresno Pacific University before you take the next step? We get it – it’s a big decision. We invite you to learn more about us. Schedule a visit, get an information packet or learn more about financial aid.

Photo of Randy Hernandez

Randy Hernandez

Admissions Counselor

A first-generation college graduate, Randy understands firsthand the questions and uncertainties many students face when considering their educational and career paths. He earned both a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Religious Studies and a Master of Arts in Theology from Fresno Pacific University. Today, Randy enjoys helping students discover their strengths, clarify their goals and find educational opportunities that align with their calling.

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