<p>Penn is a great choice for any student who qualifies for
financial aid. However, for a student whose parents
are paying full freight there are other options. If the student
can pass Penn's admission standards then they can
qualify anywhere. There are other Schools that may
be a better fit for this student. There are great School's that will
offer Merit Scholarships. Penn is aggressive
about encouraging students who are not applying
for financial aid to apply for early decision. Students
worry that if they don't get in during early decision
that they will miss their opportunity to go to the
Ivy League. That's not the worst thing that could happen
to them.<br>
I just say to parents and students. Open your mind to the
possibilities. Ask yourself why the University is asking
you to make a commitment early in the year. Why
not have an early action program so that students
can evaluate their options during the regular
Admissions Process.
Penn does a great job attracting qualified
applicants but there are other Schools
out there and students should have
an opportunity to explore their options during
their Senior Year and not be pushed into
a decision so early in the year.
If a student is offered a Merit Scholarship
at another School
they should take it and go there. </p>
<p>Rosalie1, you sound a little frustrated. </p>
<p>Of course there are other options, and students who are qualified to get into Penn are probably qualified to get a nice merit scholarship at other schools. That is no secret. But, you really don’t know what is best for them so to make a statement like</p>
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<p>is projecting your situation on people that you know nothing about. There is no reason to do that. If you have made that choice based on your situation, I am sure it is right for you, but please don’t presume that everyone is just like you.</p>
<p>Everyone is entitled to do what is best for them based on their own situation, the end. I am sure everyone applying to Penn or any other expensive school knows that there are other schools out there. </p>
<p>Do what is best for you and good luck to you at whichever school you choose.</p>