<p>fogfog, state schools often have rolling admissions so the OP may well have applied RD there and gotten an answer in Dec. ED deadline at Muhlenburg is Feb 15 which is odd, but the basic story does make sense. I believe that the friend applied to the state school RD, got in and heard in Dec , and then applied ED to Muhlenburg</p>
<p>Here is what M says:
2. When do we decide? - We begin reading ED applications around Thanksgiving. As decisions are made, we mail decision letters weekly through Feb. 25.</p>
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<li><p>What about financial aid? - We pledge to all Early Decision applicants that we will treat them fairly for financial aid (and we run early need-based and merit aid processes so that students admitted Early Decision know about financial aid before they are required to deposit). In order to hear about need-based aid as quickly as possible after an ED acceptance, file a CSS Financial Aid Profile within a week of applying to Muhlenberg. We will run early need-based and merit aid processes for accepted ED students.</p></li>
<li><p>What is your commitment? - If you are admitted ED, youre expected to withdraw other applications and enroll at Muhlenberg. This is a promise you should not make lightly.</p></li>
</ol>