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Q: Will applying early decision or Early Action increase my chances of admission?

A: Too many times students feel pressure to apply Early Decision. They feel they won't get admitted otherwise, which is not the right reason for a high school senior to commit so early. We offer Early Action as opposed to Early Decision because Early Action is nonbinding. We feel Early Action is a better option over Early Decision, as it is more fair to the student. I think the most important factor for a student applying Early Decision is that a school is his or her first choice.
--Susan Christian, Dean of Enrollment, Rider University (Lawrenceville, NJ)

A: It's difficult and unfair for many students to make a final decision before they have a sense of their Financial aid options and their final cost to attend the institution. I sense that Early Decision programs are helpful for full-pay students, but can cause unnecessary pressure for those who need financial aid. In addition, I have found that guidance counselors often do not understand how "binding" these programs can be, which can cause some problems for the student. Many schools consider misuse of an Early Decision program an honor code violation.
--Pat LeDonne, Director of admissions, Randolph-Macon Woman's College (Lynchburg, VA)

A: There is a kind of gamesmanship that has developed around Early Decision. It's not healthy for the overall  

college admissions

  process. Most institutions do not change their standards for Early Decision applicants. The real question is still the fundamental one: Is a college the right fit for you? If you absolutely feel that it is, then Early Decision is fine. If there are any questions at all, we encourage students to wait and apply Regular Decision. Students and colleges alike sometimes lose sight of the fact that this is an educational decision for the student, not a marketing game.
--Ellen Schulte, Director of Communications, Bennington College (Bennington, VT)


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Paul D. Rosevear is a frequent contributor to The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.

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