Ever try to buy tickets to a concert only to find out you're too late. Don't find yourself left out of the life you want. Plan your education adventure early and get in line first.
Many schools have a spring application deadline for fall admission.
That probably means you have to submit everything no later than March if you want to attend college in September. Check with the school you're interested in for exact deadlines. They're usually on the school's web site, or call the office of admissions. The Application Applying to several schools is often tedious and time consuming. Some schools have their own applications.