Choosing Your College: What to Do After Early Acceptances
A guide for students with multiple acceptances
Now that we have passed the November 1st deadline, many of you have applied either Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) to your favorite universities. As those decisions start to come in mid-December, you may be left thinking: Now what? How do I decide??
Hopefully you will be admitted to your absolute favorite university through ED. If so, then there is no decision to be made. By applying through ED, you are already committed to attending, so enjoy!
But if you applied through Early Action, then hopefully you have a variety of acceptances to choose from. Now the tough part comes. Which one to choose?
Typically you have a nice selection of universities on your list. They all tick some of the boxes, but none of them are absolutely perfect. That is why it’s hard to make the big, final decision as to which one to attend and which one would be best for you.
Here are some factors to consider when you’re trying to decide:
- Cost / Tuition / Financial Aid
This one is obvious. Of course you need to consider how much it costs! When you receive your admissions decisions, typically the financial aid award is included in the acceptance letter. Sometimes the financial aid details come a few days later, but normally it is at the same time. If you are not awarded any financial aid, you have the ability to review or appeal the decision, but don’t expect that the award will change by tens of thousands of dollars. It might improve a bit, but not massively so. When comparing costs between colleges, make sure you include the tuition, housing, food plans AND extra fees, transportation, entertainment etc.
- Academic Fit & Degree Programs
Does this university have a strong program in your field? Is there a course, a professor or a focus that is particularly interesting to you? As you consider these aspects, make sure to read through the course list of your degree program. It is super helpful in showing you exactly what you will be studying. Also check to see if the university offers research opportunities, internships or study abroad programs. Lastly, make sure you have a “Plan B” major, and that you are allowed to switch majors if you are not happy with the one you originally chose.
- Campus Culture & Community
How do you feel about the overall “vibe” of the campus? Is it competitive or more laid back? Is it small and rural or big city energy? Is there an active campus social life or do most people go into town for fun? Also check to see if there are events, clubs, sports or other extracurricular offerings that might interest you.
- Support & Resources
Make sure that the university offers you academic support. You never know when you might need some advice from adults, tutoring from upperclassmen or just some study help. Other types of support to look for are career advising services, mental health resources, and international student support (visas, housing, clubs etc). All of these are super important and could make or break your college experience.
- Location & Lifestyle
Honestly, I think most people make their final decision based on the location of the university. Maybe you want to be close to family, or you want sunny weather, or you want access to nature in order to ski, hike, bike or whatever. Or maybe you want easy access to transportation and the airport. Whatever the case may be, the location of your college is always a key factor in your decision.
- Size & Teaching style
Some people swear that large universities are the best because they offer absolutely everything – from degree programs, to majors, to renowned professors to student clubs to sports. But there are others who prefer small colleges for more personalized attention, smaller classes and less chance of falling through the cracks. Large universities offer opportunities and resources, but require the students to be more independent. Smaller universities have less majors or class choices, but tend to offer a more personalized “family” feel. Both of them are good, it’s just a matter of deciding what is best for you.
- Gut Feeling and Personal Connection
Sit back and think about each university separately. Which one do you feel drawn to? Which one makes you feel like you “fit”? Which one did you feel most comfortable with during your campus visit or info session? Sometimes your gut reaction is as important as all the data combined.
Choosing a college is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Take the time to compare your options carefully, talk things over with the people you trust, and stay honest with yourself about what kind of environment is best for YOU. No matter which direction you choose, remember that this isn’t about finding the “perfect” school — it’s about finding a place where you can grow, learn, and build a future.
Summary: Choosing Your College After Early Acceptances
If you’ve received several Early Action or Early Decision offers, the next step is learning how to choose which college to attend. This guide walks you through the key factors to compare: total cost and financial aid, academic fit and degree programs, campus culture and community, support and resources, location and lifestyle, size and teaching style, plus your own gut feeling and personal connection. By looking at each of these areas honestly, you can move from “application mode” to “acceptance mode” and make a confident college decision that fits who you are and how you want to grow.
FAQs: Choosing a College After Early Acceptances
How do I choose between multiple college acceptances?
Start by clarifying your priorities: cost, academic fit, location, campus culture, support and opportunities. Make a simple comparison chart for each university and rate them on those criteria. Once you’ve compared the facts, notice which campus you can actually imagine yourself living on — that combination of data and gut feeling is usually your best guide.
Is cost the most important factor when choosing a college?
Cost isn’t the only factor, but it’s a very important one. When you compare colleges, look at the full cost of attendance (tuition, housing, food, fees, transportation and personal expenses), not just the sticker price. A slightly less “prestigious” school that offers strong academics and better financial aid can often be a smarter, more sustainable choice in the long run.
What’s the difference between Early Decision and Early Action when it comes to my final choice?
With Early Decision (ED), if you are admitted, your decision is binding and your choice is essentially made — you commit to that college, assuming the financial aid package is workable. With Early Action (EA), you can be admitted early but you’re free to compare multiple offers, financial aid packages and campuses before deciding which college to attend by the regular decision deadline.
What if I still don’t know which college is right for me?
If you’re torn, go back to basics: revisit virtual tours, re-read your notes from info sessions or campus visits, and talk to current students if possible. Ask yourself where you feel you’d be most supported, most challenged and most comfortable day to day. It can also help to set a decision date, talk it through with people you trust, and then commit to one choice instead of endlessly rethinking every scenario.
What if I choose a college and later realize it’s not the right fit?
Many students adjust their path during college. You might change your major, get more involved on campus, or, in some cases, decide to transfer to another university. The goal now is to make the best decision you can with the information you have, knowing that your college journey is a process and there are still options if your needs or goals change over time.
