<p>The poster asked about the Claremont schools in particular. The Claremont schools actually cap their admits to a small % of students ED, and most, if not admitted, do not roll over to the RD pool. Therefore, because the selection process is so competitive, and unpredictable, students are encouraged to apply RD.</p>
<p>And it is true that heavy recruiting is done in the spring of the Junior year for DIII schools (just look at all of the “academic” showcases in the spring, summer.) however, it is also the same time that the DI schools are heavily recruiting, including the Ivy League schools. So, all that I am trying to say is that even though DIII schools do try very hard to “get” kids for their DIII schools, the top DI recruited players may, and often do, end up commiting to DI schools after all, including the Ivy League schools, which are in direct competition with many DIII schools. So, the DIII schools usually wait until the dust settles for the early signing period (and likely letters) and then start recruiting (again). It is not too late to persue an athletic spot for a DIII in Oct/Nov and even Dec.</p>
<p>And not all DIII schools would not “waste” a tip/slot for a student not applying ED. If the slot is solid, and the student has the academic stats to get in, then the student would not have to apply ED. If the Coach wants them enough, they can get them in.</p>
<p>And just an edit. My DS did all of this. He was a very heavily recruited DI, solid academic athlete. His sport is a major sport. It can be a very daunting process to go through for an athlete who has many options and is very highly recruited. After going through it with my DS, I am just trying to help people out who are where we were a couple of years ago. HOWEVER, for some reason, every single time that I post on this particular forum, I get slammed by someone. I try to help with a process that students who are not going through the dual process of college selection as well as athletic considerations do not understand as it is a very difficult road. I think we would have valued as much information as possible during that time, but for some reason this particular section of CC is not very “friendly”</p>