PhD after bachelor's degree timeline I'm currently in the last year (aka 3rd - 2019/2020) of my bachelor's degree, and I'm planning to apply for a PhD in the US, just after earning my degree.

Assuming everything goes nicely for me, then I'll expect graduate in September/October 2020 (this is the fastest I can do here in Italy). Let's also assume that I can fill all the PhD's prerequisites (recommendation letters, TOEFL, ...) during this period.

At that point, I would be ready to apply, but the application would be for the next year. If I do get admitted I would start my PhD in the 2021-2022 fall! An entire year would be basically wasted.


Am I arriving too late? Is the fall of the 3rd year the "proper" time to apply?
Is there anything useful I can do during this period? Should I start a master's degree in the meantime? Maybe I can convert some classes to the PhD program?


I apologize for the naive questions, but I couldn't find anything on the internet, and I don't know really have experience with the admission process /timeline in the US.
I hope you can help me and maybe even report your experience. Thanks!
Actually, you should be applying now, not when you finish. Now is starting to be a bit late for the 2020 opening. The process is pretty long. 

If your application is strong, then starting a month or so late in the US might not be a problem and it is possible that an exception could be made if that is necessary. But programs in the US usually start with a fair bit of advanced coursework, depending on the field. 

Also, your current record is complete enough that people will be able to send proper letters and the admitting committee will be able to judge the likelihood of your success. You don't need final year grades to make that possible. 

But if you do need to take a delay then some project with one of your current professors, even if unpaid, might be a useful way to stay connected, get a bit of research experience, and build relationships that result in strong letters. But there are lots of other possibilities, some of which keep you connected and some of which let you unwind for a while before doctoral study.