This will be my first attempt at applying to programs. I know the timeline for each school will be somewhat different, however, when will you guys submit your applications for matriculation in 2018?
You want to submit your application as soon as you can! Most schools have rolling admissions so once you've submitted your application then the schools can look at it. Interviews can start as early as August and will typically go all the way to December.
That is my understanding too. I plan on submitting my application the weekend or early next week. Unless I am not looking in the right place, some schools (like NOVA) haven't provided a timeline for when the application process starts for 2017-2018.