The Early Decision Plan at American University is an application option for freshman students for whom American University is their first choice. It is a binding program, which means that when you apply as an Early Decision candidate, you agree to enroll at American University, if admitted, in exchange for receiving your admission decision early.
The deadline for Early Decision is November 15, and students will be notified of their admission decision by December 31. In addition, Early Decision candidates who are eligible are also notified of their financial aid, honors and merit scholarship status at the point of admission.
Remember that as an Early Decision candidate at AU, you may apply to other schools while your application to AU is being reviewed. However, if you are offered admission to AU, you must withdraw applications to all other colleges and universities at that time.
Test-Optional Pilot Program
American University is launching a one-year test-optional pilot program for fall 2010 Early Decision applicants. Under this pilot program, Early Decision applicants may choose whether or not to submit their standardized test scores for consideration.
Our decision to explore a test-optional pilot follows a growing national trend toward test-optional policies and further emphasizes our belief that your academic performance is the most important consideration in our holistic review. While standardized test scores can help to predict potential success in college, your academic performance in the classroom is the most important factor in our review of your application; we also consider qualitative factors such as the essay, letters of recommendation and involvement in extracurricular activities. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Already Applied Early Decision?
If you have already submitted your Early Decision application and standardized test scores but do not want your scores considered, you must complete our online form.
Applying for Financial Aid?
American University is committed to supporting students who demonstrate financial need. Students who apply to AU under the Early Decision Plan are given consideration for need-based and merit award packages in the same manner as students who apply under our Regular Decision Plan. If American University is your first choice, we encourage you to apply Early Decision.
Early Decision applicants who wish to be considered for need-based financial aid must complete the CSS Profile form and submit it to the College Board by November 15. The FAFSA must be submitted no later than February 15.
