<p>Hey, I'm starting to get into my college search (this seems like a good place to come for info, I'll probably be posting here quite a bit in the near future...) and this is one thing that's got me curious.</p>
<p>There are some schools I'd like to do EA with (Northeastern and BU at the moment) but I'm really going to be relying on merit scholarships from all colleges, something that will play heavily in my decision. Am I more/less likely to receive merit scholarships from those schools if I do EA, and if I do, will I get less? I'm just unfamiliar with how it works. </p>
<p>Oh, and on a side note, Northeastern has an Honors program I think I could get into; would they let me know if I got in upon acceptance or only once I commit to them? Additionally, would that affect my chances for scholarship money as well? </p>
<p>I've searched for these answers but to no avail. I appreciate any help.
Thank you =]</p>
<p>There have been conjectures that ED may prevent schools from giving merit scholarships since an applicant has already committed to attending. But since EA is non-binding, it shouldn't negatively affect your getting merit scholarships. It could possibly be a positive as it gives an indication that you are interested in the school and because merit money should be available since you're being accepted at the beginning of the admissions process. </p>
<p>I'm not sure how NEU runs their Honors program, you might want to just give them a call and ask it works.</p>
<p>Since each school has its own way of doing things, it's difficult to say. I can tell you that I have seen schools where EA kids have an advantage at the scholarships and not the other way around. If you do not get any word of an award when accepted EA, you can write or call and let the school know how delighted you would be to go there, but that merit money is going to play a role in your decision. Since you are accepted, the shoe is on the other foot now in terms of who needs to attract whom.</p>