<p>So many people told me ED Williams death trap? as it need-blind top LAC.
Is that true? So if I need FA, go for RD is better?
I want to hear you guys advices!</p>
<p>Thanks very much!</p>
<p>ohyeah, ED acceptees get need based financial aid, same as RD acceptees. </p>
<p>The risk in applying ED is not that you won't get any. The risk is that you can't know in advance how much you'll get (except a general idea) nor will you know the breakdown between grants and loans. Since you must accept an ED placed if offered, you won't have the ability to compare with other schools' packages and negotiate with Williams based on your other choices.</p>
<p>You could of course ask Williams to increase your package, but without another offer you would have very little bargaining power.</p>
<p>So, bottom line, if you need sa ubstantial amount of need based aid and your situation is borderline or complicated, don't apply ED, anywhere.</p>
<p>I didn't really feel as if applying ED was a death trap. Before I knew I had been accepted to Williams, I had begun to apply to other colleges as a safety measure. Once I found out I was accepted and that the financial aid they offered was feasible for me, I withdrew my applications elsewhere. Also, if I remember correctly, you can breech the ED contract if you do not feel as if your financial need is being met.</p>