How soon is too soon?

[toby42]

Application Deadline is January 15th. I was planning on submitting my application and all other materials in late October. Is that too soon? Should I wait until after Christmas break? What is the optimal time to apply?

[3point14]

Apply as early as you want to. If it's an online app, just make sure the application for this season is open. You never know what can go wrong with sending transcripts, letter writers, etc, so it's best to get stuff in early just in case. Turning an app in early certainly won't reflect poorly on you.

[sareth]

I agree with 3point14 - it's amazing how many fiddly details are involved, and how many little things that need to be fixed can go wrong along the way. The department who lost my transcripts comes to mind...

Additionally, if any of the programs you're applying to have rolling admissions it's best to be early - and who knows, you may even get an early admit!