Would it be strategic to apply to Brown ED, even if you are in dire need of FA?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Brown University
1

<p>Would it be strategic to apply to my first choice, Brown, next year ED, even if I am in dire need of financial aid (<69,000, I don’t want parents paying a lot). If not, I will probably apply to H, Y, or P EA, just for the heck of it.</p>

2

<p>If I’m not mistaken, only Yale has SCEA. But what do you mean strategic? Like will applying ED be easier to get in? Deceivingly no and arguably harder than RD (depending on who you are). MANYMANYMANY ED spots are given to recruited athletes and legacies. Then “quotas.” Then everyone else. If you’re an international student applying for full financial aid, that’ll be much harder. </p>

<p>Applying ED though could be seen as an advantage in the sense that if you’re not accepted, you’re PROBABLY deferred and, therefore, have 2 chances at admission.</p>

3

<p>Next year, Harvard and Princeton are also offering SCEA. </p>

<p>I’d say apply if it’s your first choice for sure. It won’t be easier to gain admission, but you get four months of peace of mind while everyone panics, and need to do fewer apps (if you’re admitted, that is). Financially, considering the amount of money your family makes, Brown should cover the majority of it. And if they happen to give you an extremely crappy FA package, you can always back out of ED/ negotiate to get what you need. I applied ED despite my family’s financial need and am extremely happy with my decision.</p>

4

<p>Assuming you don’t have extensive assets, I’m pretty sure you’re going to get a great package. Brown conveniently has the “no loans for family incomes < $100,000” policy, which turns out to be quite pleasant!</p>