Hey folks! Quick q - do students who apply ED to colleges also get considered for scholarships, or do you have to apply RD to be in the running for that sorta thing? Money is a big factor for me and I'm a bit worried about missing out.
Hello! This is an excellent question and definitely one to consider if you're relying on scholarships for your education. Students who apply Early Decision (ED) are still eligible for scholarships. Most institutions have funds allocated for merit and need-based scholarships that they award to both ED and Regular Decision (RD) applicants.
However, it's important to note that by applying ED, you're committing to attend if accepted and to withdraw applications from other schools, which could potentially limit your ability to compare need-based financial aid offers. Before you decide to apply ED, make sure to check with each institution's financial aid office to understand their specific policies regarding scholarships for ED applicants. For example, Vanderbilt University offers their merit-based scholarships to all applicants regardless of whether they apply ED or RD. It's crucial to communicate with the financial aid offices of the colleges you are interested in to ensure that you are making the best financial decision for your circumstances. Best of luck!
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