Admissions

A formal Early Decision program permits students who especially desire to attend Allegheny to have their credentials considered in advance of the regular selection process. Prospective students should not become candidates for Early Decision unless Allegheny is the first choice college and unless they intend to accept an offer of admission. Early Decision candidates may submit applications to other colleges, but these applications must be withdrawn when acceptance to Allegheny is confirmed. A one page insert in the “Application to Allegheny College” details the exact terms of the agreement. The Early Decision procedures are identical to those for Regular Decision, except for the application deadline noted above.

Why apply under the Early Decision plan?

If you have decided that Allegheny is your first choice, you will hear about your acceptance (and financial aid offer, if applicable) early and have your college plans set. If you are ready to commit to Allegheny, we can be ready to commit to you as early as the fall of your senior year. You must complete the Early Decision Agreement form and submit it with your application. We typically start receiving Early Decision applications in October and can accept these applications until November 15. If you and your family are candidates for financial aid, we will send you an early version of the financial aid forms so that we may provide you with an early estimated financial aid package. Your parents will still need to complete the FAFSA by February 15 to confirm the data they report on this early form.

The admissions committee will make one of the following decisions on an Early Decision application:

• Accept for admission. Approved candidates must pay a non- refundable $400 deposit by the date indicated in the letter of acceptance (normally four weeks are allowed) or the applicant will be withdrawn and no further request for consideration honored.
• Delay final notification. This action by the Admissions Committee suggests that additional grades from the senior year, test information, or an interview is desired prior to making the final decision. Candidates may opt to retake the SAT I or ACT. The additional scores will then be considered prior to making a final decision. No additional application is required, and a candidate’s admission status will not be adversely influenced by the Committee’s action to delay final notification.
• Deny entrance. Applicants who should direct their college planning to other institutions will be notified accordingly and as quickly as possible. Early Decision candidates seeking financial assistance will not be required to forward the $400 initial deposit before they receive an estimated financial aid award.

Early Decision is an excellent option, and we encourage you to call or e-mail us if you have any questions or concerns. Typically, 20 percent of our incoming class is filled through Early Decision and 80 percent via Regular Decision.