I’ve looked at the admission rates (where available) for early action vs. regular admission for the schools in which my son is applying, and they weren’t all that different. Is there any thought that early action gives a student a leg up on merit/need based/talent money? I’m wondering if the time may be better spent preparing a better essay/interview/audition than trying to hit an early action deadline.
Some schools run out of Financial Aid, so it is better to get your application in early. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. EA is nice because you hear re acceptance early, but you often don’t get the FA offer until much later. Best of Luck.
Both or our kids submitted their college applications before the beginning of November…all of them. Both applied EA to some places, rolling admissions, and regular decision. All done by November 1. Made their senior year much nicer!
You mention “audition”. One of our kids was a music performance major…and he had two schools with early audition dates…and he did those. He his decision with merit aid before Christmas. In addition, he did an off site audition for a third school well before regular auditions…and had that acceptance as well. Even though his auditions weren’t until later everywhere else…the applications were submitted. Most schools will not allow you to,schedule an audition until applications are submitted.
I think the admissions edge isn’t big for EA…as it’s not binding. But it sure is nice to have some acceptances early in the game.
Many schools that have merit aid deadline early. Some schools would only consider merit aid for EA applicants. For need based grant, earlier applicants, though not necessary EA, may have a better chance as money is limited.
agree with the above… check the colleges, some have earlier deadline for merit aid…