How do I decide if I should apply to a school with a binding Early Decision policy?

Hey guys! I'm a junior, and I've been considering applying to a school with a binding Early Decision policy. I'm not sure if this is the right choice for me, as I'm worried about committing without knowing my financial aid package. Can anyone from collegevine or current seniors share their thoughts on this? Thank you!

Hey there! Deciding whether to apply through a binding Early Decision policy can be a bit of a challenge, but I'm happy to share some insights based on my experience with my own child.

First off, it's important to know that Early Decision is a great option if you're absolutely sure that the school is your top choice and you're confident in your ability to afford it. If financial aid is a significant concern, it might be better to consider other non-binding options like Early Action or Regular Decision, which allow for more flexibility and time to compare aid packages from multiple schools.

However, you should know that many schools are committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for students admitted through Early Decision. You can use the school's net price calculator to get an estimate of your aid package beforehand. If the estimate seems reasonable and you're comfortable with the potential range, it may be worth applying Early Decision. Remember, you can always reach out to the school's financial aid office to discuss any concerns before making a decision. Good luck!