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IOWA CITY, IA — ACT is dedicated to helping people achieve educational success and invites students, families, educators, and those in our communities across the country to join in celebrating students, their academic journeys, and college careers this #WhyApply Day today, Sept. 19, 2025.

#WhyApply Day marks the start of college application season by encouraging learners to share their reasons for applying to college and highlighting the importance of this critical milestone. Nearly 480,000 students nationwide are expected to take part in college application events this fall; let’s give them the boost they need to follow through with their potential college decisions and submit applications.

“Applying to college is more than a formality. It’s a declaration of a student’s aspirations and potential,” said Janet Godwin, CEO, ACT. “Through #WhyApply Day, we at ACT want to celebrate the promise we make to every learner: the opportunity to pursue their goals and shape their future.”

For today’s celebrations, ACT encourages all supporters to: Wear their college gear to show school pride.Share their “Why Apply” statement on social media through a photo, video, drawing, or written message with the hashtag #WhyApply.Tag ACT’s American College Application Campaign on social media (@Americancac on Facebook and @American_CAC on X) to help spread inspiration.In past years, participants shared reasons such as: “Because I wanted to make a difference,” “College enriches your life and your mind,” and “Everyone is college material.”

By joining in this celebration, communities across the country help students feel supported as they prepare to take their next step. “Every message of encouragement reminds learners that their goals are possible and that they’re not alone in this journey,” added Lisa Sommer King, senior director, American College Application Campaign.

For more information and celebratory resources, visit .

The American College Application Campaign (ACAC), a national initiative of ACT’s Center for Impact and Learning, is designed to increase the number of first-generation college students and students from low-income families who pursue a postsecondary degree. The Campaign has served millions of students since its inception in 2005 by supporting high school seniors as they navigate the college application and admissions process and ensuring each participating student submits at least one college application. For more information about ACAC, please visit .

CONTACT: ACT Strategic Communications; publicrelations@act.org