<p>For those of us who have applied to schools other than those that notify on March 10, such as local but highly regarded day schools (sorry, can't give schools or states), do any of them ever inform applicants earlier than the stated decision date, either formally or informally? If so, how much earlier? Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>They never inform formally before the decision date. I have heard of, rarely, perhaps hinting that a student will get in, but no guarentees.</p>
<p>Oh, well--thanks for the info. I thought perhaps they might, because when, some years ago, we applied to a highly selective K-8 school for kindergarten, the admissions director called us the day after my son's interview--weeks before the official notification date--and told us they loved him and that he would get in, though the official letter wouldn't come for several more weeks.</p>
<p>Yes, with local primary schools, it's different. But with prep schools, there are so many applicants, and there can be changes at the last minute, so they probably don't say anything because they can't truly know for sure.</p>
<p>That makes sense. I guess we'll just have to wait. I thought, too, that they might have something like an "A" list--clear admits--who would hear a bit earlier, and some of whom might turn down their offers, opening up spots for some highly desirable "B" list applicants whom the admissions office might want to accept by the stated decision date rather than send wait-list letters.</p>
<p>My local private school decides admissions on a rolling basis, but they do have a deadline (i.e. the earlier the application is sent in, the earlier you get your letter).</p>
<p>I know some "winking" goes on, especially with legacies, athletes and others of special interest to the school.</p>
<p>A few of the catholic day schools here in the Boston area have already released their decisions in January. Some of these schools are requiring a $500 deposit from the students by March 1. </p>
<p>I believe that this deposit is non-refundable regardless if a student gets accepted somewhere else (on March 10) or not. Forces parents to hedge their bets with $500 if they are hoping to get accepted by one of the more selective boarding schools. </p>
<p>Anyone in this situation? What are you doing about it?
My son may be in that situation next year.</p>
<p>My son was just accepted to BC High. He has til March 15th to reply. The Catholic schools have always released decisions ahead of the independent schools, not really sure why there is no coordination.</p>