UNH Parents Guide to Regular Decision

UNH Parents Guide to Regular Decision
Parents Guide
January 5, 2026
Author
Emily Kulp

If you are supporting a prospective college student through the college search process, you’ve come to the right place. Our UNH Parents Guide blog series is here to help you navigate the college application process and empower your student to make informed decisions. Today, we’re talking about what you need to know about applying Regular Decision to college.

is 2/1, so there is still plenty of time for your student to hit submit. Read on to learn how you can guide your student through the college application and admissions process.

UNH family on move in day
Application tips

What is Regular Decision?

UNH’s Regular Decision deadline is 2/1. This is a non-binding admissions deadline. Our Regular Decision deadline gives students more time to choose where they want to apply and to prepare their materials, compared to our Early Action deadline. Students who apply Regular Decision can still choose from an incredible range of majors and top-ranked programs. They are also automatically considered for merit scholarships based on their GPA.

UNH family on move in day
application tips

How can my student apply?

Your student can apply to UNH right on the . We require a high school transcript and one letter of recommendation from a school counselor or core academic teacher. UNH is test optional. You can see the full application instructions here

UNH family weekend tailgate
application tips

How long do we have to enroll?

If your student applies Regular Decision to UNH, they will still have until 5/1 to make their enrollment decision. However, once they know they want to attend UNH, it's best to enroll as soon as possible. Once your student enrolls, they will get access to register for housing and orientation. 

UNH herbarium
application tips

How does my student choose a major?

Start by exploring any colleges and majors your student is gravitating toward while also encouraging them to keep their options open. Remember to remind your student that they can apply to UNH — most first-year students here do! With great academic advising programs for undecided students, they’ll have plenty of time to make a decision.

UNH chalk toss tradition
application tips

How can I support my student?

First, reassure your student that there is still plenty of time to apply to colleges. Second, your student may benefit from some structure to the overwhelming process and timeline of applying to colleges. Support your student by helping them understand, step by step, what they need to do to submit their application and how the admissions decision process will work. The is also always here to answer any of your questions!

UNH Parent and Family Orientation
application tips

How can I be supported as a parent?

Don’t forget to also take care of yourself while helping your student through this important time. Remember, this is also a chance for your student to begin to flex their independence before going to college, so give them ownership over making decisions as you guide them along the way. And if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to — that’s what we’re here for!

Your student will be supported here.

Published
January 5, 2026
Author
Emily Kulp