Early Decision and Financial Aid

innovator
Sun, 22 Jul 2007 16:41:50 +0000

Since parents also sign the contract, it is unlikely that an accepted student can back out saying parents can’t/won’t be able to pay. Often the actual amount parents can afford is much less than the expected family contribution. That’s where merit aid helps. You should be able to estimate what type of aid and the amount you are likely to get from the school you are considering. If it is in the range your family can afford, you can apply ED. You shouldn’t go that path if you have a chance to get substantial merit and from another institution and would like to take advantage of it.
Good luck.