<p>Hello,</p>
<p>I’m a student in one of the best high schools in China. I really wanted to apply Amherst for ED, because I want at least to have a try with a bigger chance.</p>
<p>But my advisor told me today that most of the students, including me, who also need financial aid, apply in ED will be deferred or even refused, because colleges intend to wait for more suitable students. Is that true? Are those need-blind colleges, such as Amherst, doing the same? Please give me a clue. Thank you very much for your time.</p>
<pre><code> — Frank
</code></pre>
<p>If Amherst is need blind, that means they won’t even look at your financial need while evaluating your application.</p>
<p>But like you said, you want to try “with a bigger chance”. If you want to go to a school better than Amherst, then don’t apply ED because your lack of enthusiasm for the school will undoubtedly shine through your application. ED is a final committment so don’t make that committment if you don’t DEFINITELY want to go to that college.</p>
<p>I think Frank is saying he wants to apply when he believes he may have a better chance of getting accepted.</p>
<p>As elbeeen said, Amherst is need-blind so your financial need is not a factor in the admissions decision, whether you apply ED or RD. I don’t think you advisor is correct. It may seem most students are deferred or rejected just because most students’ are – whether they have financial need or not. My kid applied ED with financial need and he was accepted. He knows quite a few other students there with the same story.</p>
<p>It’s a tough school to get accepted to, though, so good luck!</p>
<p>If Amherst is your first choice, you should definitely apply ED. This sends a clear message that proclaims, “I REALLY want to be at this college.” If you are admitted and you feel that the financial aid you are offered is not sufficient, you can withdraw without penalty, despite the “binding” commitment. (However, Amherst financial aid is usually excellent.)</p>
<p>The top US colleges (including Amherst) receive tons of strong applications from China, so you can help distinguish yours by making it clear that Amherst is your number-one choice, not a back-up to Harvard, Princeton, Yale, etc. (which are, of course, better known in China).</p>
<p>However, if your junior grades were not up to your usual standards, then you might want to wait and apply via Regular Decision in order to give yourself time to earn the best possible grades. But, if you’re pleased with your junior grades and you really want to go to Amherst, then you will benefit from an Early application.</p>
<p>I second 'rentof2 … it’s a tough school to get into, so good luck.</p>
<p>thank you sally. thats very informative.</p>
<p>thank you all for your reply~</p>