<p>Hi everyone,
I have this problem and I was wondering what your thoughts on this are. </p>
<p>I really want to apply to Smith College via Early Decision II plan, but I am afraid that if I do get in, I might not be able to afford it in case they won't offer me enough merit-based aid. That is the main reason why I haven't applied anywhere ED yet - not so sure I can pay for a liberal arts college. But Smith really is my first choice and I want to apply there ED, and I wish they would offer me enough financial aid so I could attend it.
So the question is, what if I do get in Smith by applying ED, but it turns out I can't afford it, is IT possible not to go to that college because of that reason? Or will I still have to go? </p>
<p>Thank you for your help.</p>
<p>Email your regional admissions officer asking him this question. You will find that most schools are receptive to this type of issue because the fact is that many people cannot afford to shell out 55K/year for a college education. I found Amherst and Williams to be extremely upfront, and I don't see why Smith would be any different. It won't hurt to ask.</p>
<p>Thanks for your advise. I will ask them as soon as possible.
What about the ED plan? Do I not have the right not to go the school because I won't be able to afford it, if I got in via ED?
Thank you again</p>
<p>I know Williams and Amherst allow an "out" from the ED contract if you feel that the financial aid package they offered you makes it impossible to attend. Of course, this requires a thorough conversation with the FA office, so you can't just say "No, I don't think so. Bye!" What happens is that they transfer your acceptance into the RD round, allowing you to apply to other schools and compare FA packages. So in these colleges' cases, you still keep your acceptance.</p>
<p>Okay that is really helpful, i appreciate it.
Thanks!
If anyone has anymore thoughts, please feel free to comment.</p>
<p>If you are worried about financial aid you shouldn't be applying early decision. Simple as that. If you need to compare offers you should be applying regular decision.</p>