Waiting For News

Early decision notifications are on their way!  You can check your school’s website to confirm the decision release date.  If you did apply either early decision or early action it is time to take the next step in your journey to college.  For those of you who applied rolling and have received news it’s also time for you to take action. This is what you will need to do:

ACCEPTED: Congratulations!

Early decision is binding.

• Confirm your plan to enroll by sending in the required non-refundable deposit by the school’s due date. Make sure you don’t miss this deadline.
• Withdraw any other other applications you sent.
• Check your inbox often. You’ll be receiving mailings relating to special programs for admitted students. In time you will also be sent notices relating to housing, medical and health forms, and invitations to special events that may require your response.

Early action is not binding.

• If you’re certain this is the school for you, send your deposit and secure your spot by the deadline in the class of 2026. Although not required, you should be considerate to other applicants and withdraw your outstanding applications to other schools.
• If you’re not sure this is the school for you or need to evaluate your financial aid offers and want to leave your options open, hold off until you’ve received all your other admissions decisions before accepting or rejecting your offer of admission.

Rolling admission is not binding.

• You don’t need to respond until you are absolutely certain this is the school you would like to attend.
• Unless you’re sure this is the school for you, finish your other applications and send them in by the due dates.

DEFERRED: Take a deep breath.

• If you received a deferral from your early school, think about whether this school is truly your first choice. If you believe the answer is yes, communicate that thought to your admission rep by letter, sending it both by snail mail and email. Express the reasons this is your top school and offer to provide any additional information to further support your application.
• Talk to your guidance counselor about your plans. Also, ask if they would reach out to your admissions rep to speak on your behalf.
• Focus on completing all your other applications by the deadlines.

Whether deferred or rejected, please realize this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re not qualified, it may simply mean there’s not enough room for all the accomplished candidates who have applied. Many competitive schools receive many, many more applicants than spots open in the incoming class. Take a step forward and complete the applications for the other schools on your list.

ALSO:

Once you commit to a school, remember to reach out and thank your teachers and counselors and anyone else who has supported you in your college bound process. A hand written note is a really nice touch.

Keep in mind acceptances are conditional on maintaining your grades throughout senior year. So while you have good cause for celebrating, continue working hard to finish this school year strong.