<p>This reminds me: when my D applied in 2010, Brandeis offered an early acceptance option to selected candidates. They had to get applications in by an early deadline (December something) and would hear early as well, but not binding on the applicant’s part. Sort of like an invitation only EA. </p>
<p>I don’t know if they do this anymore, but i would go ahead and send your test scores to Brandeis, and show some interest by emailing admissions with a question (a visit and interview is even better). Brandeis does offer merit aid, but I think they’ve scaled it back and I think it is more closely tied to need than previously. You do have to submit FAFSA to be considered for merit aid. At Muhlenberg, you do not.</p>
<p>My D heard in February that she had gotten in to Brandeis, so this made us all breather ALOT easier, as she did not have any other EA schools! And, it confirmed that we were playing in the right ballpark so to speak. With all the horror stories you hear about college admissions, it is easy to panic!</p>