<p>Can an Early Decision application be withdrawn before admissions decisions are made (i.e., in the next week or two)? The reasons are complicated and personal, but son wishes to withdraw his ED application to Penn, and apply regular decision to other schools. He has signed the ED contract and obviously is committed to going to Penn if he is admitted ED. However, if he withdraws his application now, he will not be admitted to Penn. The language of the ED contract does not appear to address this situation. Any knowledge would be appreciated. Thanks!</p>
<p>Depending on the reasons, my understanding is that the status on an application can be changed from ED to RD by contacting the admissions office. Is your son considering another school?</p>
<p>Yes, for RD.</p>
<p>If you read the contract it says that an applicant has to attend when "you are accepted under an early decision plan . . . " It seems to me that until your son is accepted, he’s made no promises. He should be able to withdraw his application or move it to RD.</p>
<p>He can withdraw his app. He should contact the school as soon as possible, though, so that no one has to “waste time” reading his app.</p>
<p>Best of luck to him!</p>