What happens if you don't attend a school after applying Early Decision?

Hi there! I have a question about Early Decision and its binding nature. If I get accepted to a college through Early Decision but end up not attending the school, what consequences could that have for me? Thanks for your input!

Hello! It's a great question to ask, as understanding the implications of Early Decision (ED) commitments is important. Early Decision does come with a binding agreement, which means that if you're accepted, you should plan on attending the college unless there's a significant change in your financial circumstances or other extenuating factors.

If you ultimately choose not to attend after being accepted through ED, the most common outcome is that the institution will release you from your commitment without taking further action. However, it's essential to notify that college in writing as soon as possible, explaining the reasons for your decision. Be aware that, in some cases, colleges may communicate with each other about students who break ED agreements, and this could potentially affect your chances of being admitted elsewhere.

Each institution might handle this situation a little differently, so it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific ED policies of the college you're applying to. You can usually find this information on the college's admissions website. If you're unsure or need additional guidance, you can reach out to your high school counselor or the college's admissions office for clarification.

Good luck with your college application process!