We recommend you apply early to maximize program and scholarship consideration. But you may be wondering if early decision (binding admission) or early action (non-binding admission) is a better fit for you.
Q: What is the early decision (ED) application filing date?
A: November 1
Q: When do I receive my ED decision?
A: By December 15
Q: If offered, when is my enrollment deposit due?
A: January 15.
Q: What is the difference between applying early decision (ED) and early action (EA)?
A: Early decision is a binding agreement, meaning if you apply to UMW as an ED applicant, you are committing to attend if admitted to the university. You should only apply to one college ED and once you receive your admissions decision cancel any other applications you have submitted. Early Action is non-binding, meaning you are free to apply to other colleges and receive their admissions decisions before selecting the school you will attend.
Q: What should I do to confirm ED is right for me?
A: Start with executing a search to confirm that we are the right fight for you. You can do this by visiting (in person or virtually) and talking with current students, your admissions counselor, professors, and/or coaches. You should also speak with individuals you seek support from this may include parents/guardians and your school counselor
Q: What additional documents are required?
A: In addition to providing your high school transcript, letters of recommendation, and scores (if not applying test optional) you will need to provide the early decision agreement form. This form is signed by you, a parent/guardian, and your school counselor.
Q: What are the benefits of applying Early Decision?
A: It’s early! You will hear from us before winter break and if admitted you will be done with your admission process. Then start accumulating your UMW SWAG! Early Decision students are at the front of the line for next steps to enrolling when they begin in February.
Q: Do I have a better chance of getting in?
A: By applying ED to UMW you are indicating to us that we are absolutely your first choice. The admissions committee is selecting applicants that will be successful at UMW. You need to demonstrate through your application materials that you are prepared and ready for the college experience at UMW.
Q: What happens if I don’t get in?
A: If you are denied admission or deferred to regular decision (which is more likely to happen), you are released from the binding Early Decision agreement with UMW, meaning you can apply to other schools, receive and consider their decisions before selecting which school you will ultimately attend.
Q: Are there more scholarships attached to it?
A: All applicants are reviewed for merit scholarships at the point of admission to UMW. Additionally, applicants have the opportunity to interview for the Taking Flight Scholarship, typically $1,000-2,000 for the first year.
Q: What happens if I can’t afford the school after I get accepted early decision?
A: We know that finances are a big factor in selecting your college. The Early Decision timeline precedes need based financial aid packaging. Therefore, when applying ED you are applying to the university without full knowledge of what your full financial aid package will look like. It is important that you use resources like the NetPrice Calculator on our website to help you estimate your out of pocket costs. If you are concerned about your ability to pay for UMW, this may be a reason to consider applying Early Action instead.
Q: Should I apply ED if I have committed to play a sport before submitting the application?
A: Consult with your support system. You are not required to apply ED if you have committed to playing a sport. However, if you know that UMW is absolutely the only school for you and finances are not an issue you should apply ED.
Ready to take your next step? Whether you decide early decision or early action is your best admission plan, take your next step and start your application.
