During my travels last week I received a number of questions about Early Decision…who should apply, what is the process, are there benefits to applying ED? If you have had similar questions, please read on!
By applying Early Decision you are stating that Holy Cross is far and away your first choice for college. There should be no doubt in your mind that this is absolutely the place you want to be. The process is binding, which means that if admitted to Holy Cross, you will withdraw all other applications and enroll here. This is a serious commitment, so the decision to apply ED should not be made casually.
Unlike Regular Decision, Early Decision files are reviewed on a rolling basis, beginning November 1. Once an application is complete, the application will be read by two members of the Admissions staff, and then presented to the full Admissions Committee. Students are notified of the decision as soon as they are made. Therefore, the earlier you apply and complete you application, the earlier you will receive your decision. The deadline for applying ED is December 15.
If you plan on applying for Financial Aid, you will want to submit the CSS Profile at the same time you submit your application for admission. Our financial aid policies for ED are exactly the same as for Regular Decision. We are need-blind in the application process, which means that we do not consider the level of financial need in making our admissions decisions. We also meet full demonstrated need for all admitted students. Financial aid for Early Decision is packaged in exactly the same way as in Regular Decision. However, if you and your parents are interested in comparing aid packages from other colleges, then applying Regular Decision would be the better course of action.
So what are the advantages of applying Early Decision? An Early Decision application demonstrates your commitment to and excitement about attending Holy Cross. Because the applicant pool is smaller, we have more time to evaluate your candidacy. We respect the commitment you are making to Holy Cross, and value the fact that you are committed to attending the College. Both of these factors are given serious consideration as part of our decision making process. Also, an Early Decision acceptance alleviates the stress of the college search during the remainder of your senior year!
Ann McDermott
Director of Admissions
