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Early Decision

Washington College encourages you to “Think Beyond” being a successful student to being a sought-after graduate. Here, every class and every seminar is meant to prepare you for internships and projects that will elevate your knowledge from the gradebook to the real world. If this sounds like how you want to launch your future, consider applying Early Decision.

 

Early Decision. You’ve probably heard of it—but what does it really mean, and is it right for you?

Applying Early Decision means you’re ready to make it official: if you’re admitted, you’re committed to attending that college. At Washington College, we recommend this option for students who’ve done their research, know what they want, and are confident WC is the place for them.

If that sounds like you, apply Early Decision by November 15—and start the next chapter of your future now.

Why Early Decision:

  1. If you know, you know—if you're committed to spending your college years at Washington College, why wait to apply? Trust your decision.
  2. You will be evaluated among a smaller pool of applications and receive notification within 21 days.
  3. If you're accepted here Early Decision, the search is over and the pressure is off!
  4. Students admitted Early Decision are given priority Tuition Exchange consideration.
  5. Students admitted Early Decision are considered for additional merit scholarship opportunities (in addition to the automatic $33,000 - $38,000 annual merit award), including Presidential Fellows Scholarships, Francis Waters Awards, and our full-tution George Washington Signature Scholarships.

Early Decision FAQs:

  1. If I am accepted Early Decision, do I need to work as hard in the spring of my senior year? Colleges can and do withdraw admission offers from a student if his or her academic performance declines significantly—so don't slack off just because you got in!
  2. Does applying Early Decision decrease my chances of receiving academic merit scholarships? Not at Washington College! With your acceptance, you’re automatically awarded an initial merit-based scholarship ranging from $33,000-$38,000. And because you applied before December 1, you'll be considered for an additional $3,000-$4,000 Francis Waters Award or a $5,000 Presidential Fellows Award. Presidential Fellows receive an invitation to apply for our full-tuition George Washington Signature Scholarship. 
  3. If I require need-based financial aid, should I still consider Early Decision? At WC, we are committed to providing students who apply Early Decision with the same amount of need-based aid that they would receive if applying Early Action or Regular Decision.
  4. Can I get Tuition Exchange if I apply Early Decision? If your academic profile deems you eligible to compete for Tuition Exchange, you will be selected for an interview. All students must interview to be awarded Tuition Exchange. The really good news: you will be competing for a limited number of awards at a time when the most awards are available.

Before you apply Early Decision:

  1. Make sure you're ready to commit and confident in your choice of college—if you're having doubts, don't apply Early Decision.
  2. Do not apply ED as a strategy to “get in”—a smaller applicant pool isn't worth a four-year commitment if you're not prepared.
  3. Know what your family can reasonably invest in your college education. If comparing financial aid packages will be a vital part of your college selection process, applying Early Decision may not be right for you.

     

 

2025-2026 FAFSA

The new form for the 2025-26 school year opened October 1st. Please complete it as soon as possible to receive your financial aid award prior to enrolling at WC. The FAFSA code for Washington College is #002108.  As always, if the financial aid award offered does not make attendance possible, you may decline the offer of admission and be released from the Early Decision commitment. 

Apply Now!

We're looking for students ready to try new things, explore diverse interests, and squeeze every bit of potential out of their college experience. Whether you fell in love with the gorgeous campus, our amazing academic offerings, or our unique Centers of Excellence, if you know Washington College is where you're ready to be, apply Early Decision now!

START YOUR APPLICATION

REQUEST MORE INFORMATION

You can apply online using the Washington College Application or the Common Application. Please include a signed Early Decision Agreement Form.