<p>I understand that ED is a binding decision and that you shouldn't apply ED unless its your first choice and you really want to go there over any other school. But what if they accept you and they don't offer any sort of financial aid, vs. potentially getting something from other schools. Can you only apply ED if you can afford to go there without any scholarship money from the school? Thanks, I am new to this website, but already I am hooked on all the info that is here.</p>
<p>If you know you can't afford it, why would you apply....?</p>
<p>I'm pretty sure that schools who've accepted you ED will understand (and often negotiate) if you can't afford them with the given financial aid.</p>
<p>Wow, that sentence doesn't make a lot of sense.</p>
<p>Thanks poubelle, I understood the sentense just fine :)</p>
<p>lil killer - I'm not sure I understand - or maybe I should have been clearer. Obviously, someone with academic stats would rather receive some sort of scholarship than incur loans, etc. I think it is perceived that ED gives you a better chance of getting in to your first pick school, but what if that school gives no money? Are you stuck with that decision?</p>
<p>Thanks poubelle, I understood the sentence just fine :)</p>
<p>lil killer - I'm not sure I understand what you mean - or maybe I should have been clearer. Obviously, someone with academic stats would rather receive some sort of scholarship than incur loans, etc. I think it is perceived that ED gives you a better chance of getting in to your first pick school, but what if that school gives no money? Are you stuck with that decision?</p>
<p>From what I understand, if you apply ED, and are accepted, then you have to go to that school. If you realize then that you can't afford tuition, you will have a hard time getting out of the "contract" and it reflects poorly on you and your GC (because he/she should have informed you about it)</p>
<p>many ED colleges have a calculator on their website where you can run some numbers and get a good idea of what a package might look like for your situation. But, bear in mind that not all colleges meet 100% of (their determined) need. And, they could meet 100% of your need with loans, loans and more loans. Finally, if you need FinAid, applying ED means that you cannot negotiate, since you have no other offers to show them.</p>
<p>Thanks for the information. So help me understand this whole ED situation. Why would someone apply ED? Only if they could afford full tuition? I mean what is to prevent a school from accepting an ED student with great credentials but offer them no aid? And blubayou, I have looked at many many college websites and never seen any calculators to get expected packages. What am I missing.</p>
<p>From all I've been told, you should NOT apply ED if you need to compare FAid packages. If you are accepted ED, you are expected to attend & withdraw all other applications--NO EXCEPTIONS. Ask your GC for more info. Applying ED & not honoring the terms jeopardizes your entire school's reputation. Some/many schools will post & circulate a list of students they've accepted ED among peer schools. Students who are accepted by other schools after getting accepted ED may/likely will get recissions if their aps aren't immediately withdrawn.</p>
<p>Bottom line: Do NOT apply ED unless you're sure you're going & money is not an issue. If you have ANY questions, clarify with your guidance counselor & family.</p>
<p>Himom,
Thank you - your post is loud and clear. I guess then I am amazed by how many people are that secure in applying ED no knowing if they'll get aid or not. Must be nice to have no worries like that.</p>
<p>Actually, money is an issue in our household, which is one of the reasons ED is not something that is considered. </p>
<p>Colleges like ED, it promises them a student that is ready & willing to come to them at full price (or nearly so); students like it because they get their decision earlier & often may be accepted with slightly lower stats & may not have to apply to other schools (if they get accepted before other deadlines).</p>
<p>Yes, I agree it would be nice to be able to not have to worry about money, but this is real life & many of us do have to think about it, especially with rising tuitions, retirement, medical expenses, and other kids.</p>
<p>Early Admit is where you want an answer early but don't have to commit to the school until 5/1 & generally can apply at other schools (you have to read each school's policy).</p>