<p>CIA, in our family we could not allow ED because we needed to compare financial packages. See whether your family can afford American assuming no merit aid and just the stafford loans and maybe W/S. Also, ask your parents what would happen if there were a sudden change in your family’s finances (ie: illness, job loss). I know families who can just write a check for whatever the full tuition is, regardless of unemployment, illness, etc. Most people cannot do that. You really need to discuss it thoroughly with your parents. Even if this is your first choice school, if you are a typical non-wealthy family, don’t focus on one school because it may not be affordable to you and your family. Apply to a variety of schools. I can tell you that the cost varied wildly for our son.</p>