Next Steps After Being Accepted to College ED or EA

Congratulations! You were accepted to college through Early Decision or Early Action! But what do you need to do next? There are several things to consider moving forward, so it’s important for students to weigh all their options before accepting an early offer of admission.

If You Were Accepted Early Action or Restrictive Early Action

For students who were accepted to college through Early Action, there are several options to consider. Because an Early Action decision is non-binding — meaning you don’t have to attend if accepted — students have the option to accept the offer or continue to pursue admission at other colleges through Regular Decision, second-round early admission options, or rolling admission programs.

If You Want to Accept the Offer of Admission

Most Early Action colleges will give students until May 1 to accept the offer of admission; however, if it is your top-choice college and you don’t want to apply anywhere else, go ahead and secure your spot. If you accept the offer of admission, you’ll need to withdraw your other applications. How do you do this? We advise students to email the colleges — either the main admissions office email or admissions representative for their area — and include their full name, high school, and reason for withdrawing. Students can also call the admissions office, but an email will give students a record of their request to withdraw. Be professional, courteous, and honest.

If You’re Not Ready to Accept Your Spot

You don’t have to respond to the offer just yet, so take some time to think about it. Consider your college goals and what’s going to be the best decision for you. Should you pursue other colleges that you’d be just as happy to attend? Are you having second thoughts? Discuss your feelings with your family and your college counselor and come up with a plan moving forward.

With RD, ED II, and EA II deadlines in January, you’ll need to ensure all your other applications are done and ready to go. The remaining schools on your college list are a good mix of reach, target, and likely institutions. Complete all your applications ahead of the deadline and seek help from your school-based counselor or an independent consultant if you need additional guidance as you complete your remaining applications.

If You Were Accepted Early Decision

If you were accepted to college through Early Decision, it’s important to remember that the decision is binding — you signed an agreement that you will attend if accepted. Here’s what to do next:

• Withdraw all other applications: Since the decision is binding, you will need to withdraw any applications you may have already submitted for the RD and EA II round. You will do this the same way explained above, informing them that you were accepted Early Decision to a binding program and will be attending that school. You can also call the admissions office, but an email will provide a record of your request to withdraw.
• Discuss financial aid: For many students, an Early Decision acceptance can come with some unfavorable news, like not enough financial aid. If that is the case, contact the financial aid office to see if you can appeal your financial aid award. If you’re unable to secure a better financial aid package and the cost is still too much of a burden, you might have a case for release from your Early Decision agreement. Consult with your college counselor before making such a big decision.

Advice for All Students

Getting in early can be a big load off your shoulders, but there’s still a whole other semester to go through! Don’t forget to focus on your grades. Remember, the admissions office will still receive your final transcript. If your grades take a significant dip, the college can easily rescind their offer of admission or put you on a probationary plan. Continue to balance your coursework with the rest of your commitments and college apps. Don’t fall victim to senioritis!

Getting accepted early to your top-choice college is exciting, but it’s not the end of your admissions journey! Evaluate all your options and take the proper steps to ensure you’re attending the college that’s the best financial, social, and academic fit.

Whether you need help finishing your Regular Decision applications or would just like some guidance on your admissions options, IvyWise can help you achieve your academic goals.

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