Application Process Walkthrough: How to Apply to John Cabot University

If you're dreaming of earning your degree in the heart of Rome at an American-accredited university in Italy, you're in the right place. Whether you're applying as a first-year student or transferring from another university, John Cabot University makes the application process clear and accessible.

As of August 1, the Common App is officially open for Fall 2026 applicants, so now is the perfect time to get started!

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through:

• Your two application options
• Key deadlines
• All required documents and materials
• What to expect after you apply

Two Ways to Apply to JCU

1. The Common Application 

• Ideal if you're applying to multiple U.S. universities 
• Allows you to manage your applications in one place 
  🎓 Apply now through the Common App

2. JCU Online Application Portal

• Great if you're applying only to JCU or want a more streamlined experience 
• You’ll create a JCU account to track and upload your materials
  🎓 Apply now through JCU's Portal

 Both applications are equally valid - just choose the one that works best for you!

Application Deadlines: Plan Ahead

At JCU, we have rolling admissions deadline dates, but we strongly recommend applying by the Early Action Deadline to increase your chances for housing, scholarships, and financial aid.

Here are the key deadline dates for Fall 2026:

• Early Action: November 15, 2025
• Regular Decision: March 1, 2026
• Late Decision: May 1, 2026

📅 View all upcoming deadlines here.

What You'll Need to Apply

Whether you apply via the Common App or directly through JCU, you’ll need the following materials:

Required Materials:

• Completed application form
• A 600-word college essay
• $50/€50 non-refundable application fee (Note only U.S. and Canadian citizens may pay in dollars)
• Official transcripts of all secondary and post-secondary school work to date (Transcripts not in English or Italian must be accompanied by a certified English language translation)
• Interview by phone, zoom, or in person
• Letter(s) of Recommendation or Teacher Evaluation Form (Two for freshman applicants, one for transfer applicants)
• Evidence of English-proficiency equivalent to C1
  

Optional Materials:

• SAT or ACT scores (not required, but may be submitted as part of your application)

JCU reviews applications holistically, so we encourage you to highlight your strengths, passions, and goals in your personal statement.

What to Expect After You Apply

Once you’ve submitted your application, here’s what happens next:

• Confirmation: You’ll receive an email confirming that your application was received.
• Review Process: JCU’s Admissions team will begin reviewing your materials.
• Interview: Some applicants may be invited to a virtual interview.
• Decision: You will receive an admission decision by the notification deadline that corresponds to when you submitted your application. You can find all key deadline dates here.

Need Help? We’re Here for You

The JCU Admissions Team is ready to support you every step of the way. If you have questions or want to learn more about the student experience, we invite you to:

• Schedule a one-on-one call with an Admissions Counselor.
• Attend an upcoming online info session.

Ready to Apply?

There's no better time than now to apply to John Cabot University! Study in Rome, make lifelong friendships, and earn a degree that opens doors worldwide.

If you have any questions about the application process, please contact us at admissions@johncabot.edu.