Decision Day Scenarios

You got into your top choice Early Decision. The financial aid package is $15,000 less than expected per year - that's $60,000 over four years. You're bound by the ED agreement.

Your dream school waitlisted you. Your target school accepted you with a deposit deadline in 2 weeks.

A reach school accepted you but offered no financial aid - it's $65,000/year. Your safety school offered a full scholarship.

Your Early Action application to your top choice was deferred to Regular Decision. You're now competing against the entire RD pool.

You have 3 acceptances with different financial aid packages, different strengths, and a May 1 deposit deadline. How do you decide?