As the new school year begins, it's time to start planning for another important step in helping your members prepare for their futures - the Encourage Preference Form process.
To help chapters know what to expect, Encourage has shared key dates for the 2026–2027 preference form timeline. Understanding these milestones can help advisors proactively communicate with members, answer questions and maximize participation throughout the fall.
2026 Encourage Preference Form Timeline
August 6–27, 2026: Initial Preference Form Packages Are Mailed
Preference form packages will begin arriving at schools during this timeframe.
Please note: Mailings are intentionally staggered based on individual school start dates and response rates from the previous year, so not every chapter will receive materials at the same time.
Approximately September 14, 2026
Partner Dashboard Data Becomes Available
Beginning around September 14, data from completed preference forms will begin appearing in the DECA Partner Dashboard.
Dashboard availability depends on both student completion of preference forms and mail delivery timelines, so data may populate at different times for each chapter.
Check your dashboard regularly as data becomes available and use the insights to better understand your members' post-secondary interests and future plans.
October 22, 2026
Reminder Communications Are Sent
Educators who have not yet responded will receive reminder communications to help ensure all eligible members have the opportunity to participate.
If your chapter receives a reminder, use it as an opportunity to reconnect with members who may have missed the initial mailing and encourage them to complete their preference forms.
Plan Ahead for Success
Knowing these dates allows you to build preference form reminders into your chapter communications and set expectations with members throughout the beginning of the school year. A few proactive reminders can help increase participation and ensure your chapter is ready to take advantage of the valuable insights available through the DECA Partner Dashboard.
If you have questions about the preference form process, timeline or dashboard availability, the Encourage team is available to help. Contact them anytime at DECA@encourage.com.
