If American University feels like the perfect fit, why wait? Applying Early Decision is the strongest way to show your commitment—and it comes with real advantages. From priority course registration and housing selection to early access to financial aid and merit scholarships, Early Decision applicants are first in line for the full AU experience. Whether you choose Early Decision I or II, you’ll receive your admission decision sooner, gain access to exclusive academic and campus perks, and take your first steps toward joining a vibrant, engaged community in Washington, DC. Let AU be your future—starting now.
| Application Type | Admissions Deadline | Financial Aid Deadline | Decision |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
November 1 |
November 15 |
December 31 |
|
Early Decision II |
January 15 |
February 1 |
February 15 |
The Early Decision Plan at American University is an application option for first-year 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 as well as the other benefits outlined below.
In addition, Early Decision candidates who are eligible are also notified of their financial aid 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.
By applying Early Decision to American University, you are demonstrating your commitment to joining our special community, if admitted. To recognize that commitment, we offer our enrolled Early Decision students a number of advantages:
Students who apply under one of our Early Decision plans will receive an application fee waiver.
As we review Early Decision applicants, we will not consider financial need as a factor in our admission decision.
We know that financial considerations often preclude students from considering Early Decision. But know that we meet 100% of the demonstrated financial need for our Early Decision applicants.
Admitted Early Decision students are eligible to take an online course in the spring semester prior to their enrollment at AU in the fall. This course is designed to be completed at the student’s own pace, and the credits earned will count toward their total credit hours for graduation if they enroll in the fall.
Students admitted under an Early Decision plan will meet virtually with their academic advisor during the summer prior to completing the course registration process to answer any questions and to begin planning their academic career at AU.
Students admitted under an Early Decision application plan are entitled to priority course registration for their incoming fall semester, allowing them to create a class schedule that works best for them.
For Early Decision applicants who also submit applications to our Special Academic Programs, they will receive priority notification of their admission decision for these Special Academic Programs and Living-Learning Communities.
Admitted Early Decision applicants who enroll at American University will be given priority for beginning the study abroad (AU Abroad) planning process in their subsequent semesters.
Admitted Early Decision students go through housing selection first, meaning they are first in line to choose their residence hall.
Admitted Early Decision families will be given priority in choosing their preferred move-in date within the Fall semester move-in dates.
During Welcome Week before classes begin, we will have special programs for Early Decision students to help ease your transition to AU.
Get a special gift exclusively for enrolled Early Decision students.
AU students help produce the annual Veloric Concert, a chance to work to bring a top musical artist to campus. Past performers include Flo Rida and Flo Milli. Enrolled Early Decision students will get free tickets to the Veloric Concert during their time on campus.
Students often have questions about the role of financial aid in Early Decision. These include concerns about the availability of financial aid for ED students; timing of notification of these awards; and whether or not they should even apply ED if financial aid is a concern. Know that our Early Decision review process is need blind, meaning we do not consider financial need when making admissions decisions. We also meet 100 percent of a family's full demonstrated need. Our Early Decision candidates are notified at the point of admission of their financial aid awards and merit scholarships (if eligible).
Early Decision I applicants who wish to be considered for need-based financial aid must complete and submit the CSS Profile form to the College Board and the FAFSA to the Department of Education by November 15. For Early Decision II applicants, the CSS Profile and FAFSA deadline is February 1.
If Early Decision sounds like the plan for you, then start your American University Common Application today!
Whether you are looking to learn more about Early Decision or you are already sure, visiting campus is a must.
If you have more questions about applying Early Decision, then connecting with your admissions representative is the best way forward.