Why Early Decision?

"Early Decision" (ED) allows you to apply early and get an admission decision well in advance of the Regular Decision (RD) notification timeframe, which is typically in March.  SU's deadline for ED application is November 15.  You'll know by the end of December whether you've been accepted.

Why Early Decision?

Is Syracuse University the right school for you?  If so, you should consider applying Early Decision!  Here are a few reasons why some of our students chose Early Decision when they applied to SU:


When I visited, I couldn't stop “bragging” about how awesome the SU campus is, the athletics, the support that the professors offer, etc.  If you can describe, sell, and persuade a friend or family member about SU, then it’s the right choice for you. In April, you see everyone panicking to decide what school to attend. The best benefit of applying Early Decision is knowing where you will attend school in December - it takes the biggest weight off of your shoulders.  – Neil Winston ‘14


Applying ED is a good idea because it shows the university you are very interested and serious about attending and admissions will have a easier time remembering you.  This was a great decision because while the rest of my friends were stressing about applications, I had already applied to my top school.  I was actually able to enjoy my senior year of high school because I was not stressing like other people I knew - Delana Williams '15


I chose to apply ED because Syracuse because it was my first choice for colleges. I wanted to give myself a better chance of being admitted by applying against a smaller pool of people. It was a good decision for me because I was 100% set on Syracuse and I believe I had a better chance getting in through the ED process. – Molly Nelson ‘15

Since the college application process is a stressful ordeal, if you know that Syracuse is the place you want to be, then Early Decision is the right path for you. Your achievements on your resume will shine in the smaller applicant pool and by applying early you will show your desire to attend SU. – Jeff Cucinell ‘14

It’s true!

Your application will stand out
We appreciate and recognize your commitment to SU.  We receive a much smaller pool of applications for Early Decision compared to Regular Decision.

Greater chance to be admitted
Our admit rate is higher for Early Decision.  You have the opportunity to list a second and third choice of college/program on your application.  As an Early Decision application you are guaranteed to be reviewed for your second and third choice.

You'll have a decision by January 1
Have the application process out of the way and enjoy the rest of your senior year!    Save on application fees – if you're admitted you don't have to submit applications to other schools. 

Preference for residential Learning Communities
Every year more freshmen request to live in a Learning Community.  Acceptance into a Learning Community is on a first-come, first-served basis.  Early Decision students have early access to the housing application.

Full consideration for financial aid
All Early Decision applicants receive the same consideration for financial aid and merit scholarships as Regular Decision applicants.   Should you be admitted, you'll receive your financial aid award in January.

What else to know

Early Decision is binding, but only if you're admitted to your first choice of college/program.  If you're admitted to your second or third choice, you'll have until May 1 to reply to our offer of admission.