<p>I was hoping that someone could help clear up some confusion over the Early Decision policy at Furman. At the Junior Open House a few months ago, the Dean of Admissions stated that their ED program was different since it was not binding. If you were accepted via ED by 11/15, you would be notified by 12/15 and you would have to pay the deposit by 1/15. It sounded a little odd but there is no ED contract on their web site and no mention of it being binding, except for payment. On the other hand, their web site does not mention their ED policy being non-binding, something I think they would want to highlight. The whole issue seems a little vague. Can anyone shed any light on their actual policy? Thanks!</p>
<p>You’re right - ED is a little confusing because it is so different from other schools. My daughter applied ED last year and I’m assuming nothing has changed. If you apply by 11/15 you are notified on 12/15. Nothing is binding at this point. About 2 weeks later you will receive notification of any merit award or estimated financial aid. A reply is due by 1/15 and at this time you can say yes or no. If you accept the offer, a nonrefundable deposit is due and the early decision acceptance is now binding. This is when the student and parent sign the statement of intent and agree to withdraw all other applications. The benefit to this system is that you have a better idea of your total financial situation before you make the commitment to attend. Hope this clears it up!</p>
<p>^ Thank you for your clarification. It sounds like a win-win for the student that knows Furman is their first chance since you have a chance to see any merit award or financial aid before making that binding commitment. I wish more schools would follow that lead. I would guess under their ED system, a student could actually apply ED to both Furman and another college. (as long as they understand that they would have to attend the other school if accepted since it would likely be a binding decision). Thanks again for the explanation!</p>
<p>Actually, you have more choices than yes or no on 1/15. You can say yes, no, or “roll to regular decision,” in which case it is now like you applied RD instead of ED.</p>
<p>At least this has been the policy in the past. I didn’t check to see if it is still in effect for 2010 high school graduates.</p>