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Admission season has begun and deadlines are percolating! Are you applying Early Action, Restrictive Early Action or Early Decision? There are distinct differences:
Early Action (EA) is non-binding meaning they’ll let you know earlier (usually within 30 days) if you’re in, out or deferred to regular decision pool BUT you still don’t have to accept until the 5/1 deadline.
Early Decision (ED) is binding. Like with EA you will hear back early with a yes, no or deferred to regular decision. However, if they say yes you have to accept, withdraw all other outstanding applications, commit and send in deposit. Only go this route if you are sure you can afford to go there.
Restrictive Early Action is new and it’s a hybrid of EA & ED. Meaning not binding on you if they say yes, but it restricts you from applying ED anywhere else or in some cases even EA. I do not recommend doing this.
Here are a few important reminders for Seniors:
Make sure your essays are written AND that your teacher recommendations are actually uploaded to the proper portals so it links to the Common App.
Remind your teachers NOW of your actual earliest deadline if they haven’t already uploaded their letter of recommendation for you. Be aware that some colleges require that their own form be used. Don’t assume anything as far as requirements go.
FAFSA is open as of October 1st! Don't wait - complete the FAFSA now. Does your school require the CSS Profile? It is also open now, so be sure to complete the CSS if required. While the FAFSA is free to send, the CSS is not. It costs $16 for each school plus a processing fee.
If you're a Senior and haven't toured a school that you are applying to, please do so now so the school knows that you have toured. This not only helps you figure out if it’s a good place for you but it demonstrates interest on your part that the college can track and therefore gives you an advantage over someone who has not bothered to tour their campus.
Early Action is for strong candidates where the student and college are a great match. You want to get your application out early.
Is your Early Action deadline November 1st? If your grades need improvement, do not take advantage of Early Action if you're not in the zone yet. Wait and improve your chances by showing an upswing in your grades or uptick your SAT scores with a superscore and apply in the regular decision pool if it’s a school you really want but need to beef up your chances.
October is a great time for Sophomores (Class of 2028) and Juniors (Class of 2027) to sign up with PCCI!
Please note that the Class of 2026 is full and no longer accepting students.
PCCI's goal is to find the best fit at a school that is academically, socially and FINANCIALLY most appropriate, thereby putting your student in the best position to succeed in college and beyond.
Remember, there can be a huge difference between sticker price and net cost (i.e. what you actually pay). It’s our job to show you where and how much to expect that number to move down to or alternatively show you which colleges will stay at full price based on your situation while still keeping you on track with your budget.
Allow PCCI to help set you up for success and find your dream school.
To arrange a complimentary PCCI consultation, simply email me or call 508-622-5250.
Best regards,
Honoria DaSilva-Kilgore, Esq. of Personal College Counseling, Inc.
nod@personalcollegecounseling.com
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