Question regarding choosing a "first-choice" college

ivyhopeful13
Thu, 04 Oct 2012 18:34:04 +0000

Hello CC.

I am about to finalize my application for Finalist standing and have a question regarding the option to select a first-choice college. I have read the very extensive thread regarding the topic, but still have a question. Here is my scenario.

My first-choice is Princeton. However, I am also applying to the University of Rochester. UofR gives a minimum of $18,000 a year to all Finalists who identify UofR as their first choice college. However, if I were to get into a school such as Princeton, I would probably forgo the merit scholarship at UofR.

So here’s my question: Will identifying Princeton right now as my choice college positively impact my chances of being admitted? And will not selecting UofR right now eliminate me from their guaranteed Finalist merit scholarship? I know I can change this information, but will I be able to change it late enough (after receiving all admissions decisions) to get the merit from UofR if I desire it?

Thanks for any help you can offer!