Find your counselor:

Important Dates

More deadlines

Early Decision

Many students know instantly that Clark is right for them - a match of academic and personal interests. For those ready to make an "early decision," the Admissions committee takes that strong commitment to the University into account. Ther Early Decisions statement is found on the application supplement, and by checking that option, you agree that, if admitted to Clark, you will withdraw all other college applications.

Early decision is the right fit for many students, but here are some of the most frequently asked questions from students, like you, who are considering this option:

What is the deadline to be considered for Early Decision?

November 15.

What is the difference between Early Decision and Early Action/Early Notification?

At most colleges, Early Action and Early Notification mean that you find out the school's decision on your admission early, but you do not need to commit to the school until May 1. While Clark does not offer Early Action or Early Notification, we do offer Early Decision. Early Decision allows students to let their first choice school know that they will enroll if admitted.

What are the advantages of applying Early Decision?

Early Decision applicants know early in their senior year whether or not they have been accepted to their first choice. Successful Early Decision applicants will receive early estimated financial aid information, often including a merit-based scholarship. Other applicants (not Early Decision) don't receive such information until April.

• You are guaranteed a place in one of the popular Clark Treks, pre-orientation programs for enrolling students which have limited availability.
• You will be given first choice for your campus housing options.
• Your preference for a First-Year Seminar will be considered before regular decision students.
• You have more access to merit-based awards such as the Making a Difference and Leadership Scholarships.
• You have earlier access to need-based and merit-based financial aid.
• You will receive access in February or March to an enrolling student web site through which you can begin preliminary planning for your first year at Clark.
• We may match you with members of the University community if you have questions about the direction you wish to pursue with your curriculum or co-curricular activities.

How do I apply Early Decision?

Simply check the Early Decision box on the application supplement and mail the application and supplement to Clark by November 15th. The Admissions Committee will notify you of a decision by mid-December. This early response means that, if admitted, you do not have to spend additional money and time applying to other colleges and universities.

How can I commit to enroll at Clark if I'm a candidate for Financial Aid?

Students applying for Early Decision can receive early notification about financial aid by completing the PROFILE form. The PROFILE form is available in late October and should be submitted as early as possible and no later than December 1. Be sure to list Clark as a recipient of the form (code 3279). (The PROFILE can be found on the web at www.collegeboard.com.)

If you are admitted as an Early Decision candidate, Clark's Office of Financial Assistance will provide you with an early estimate of the aid you should expect to receive. To finalize your financial aid award, you must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit it after January 1 and no later than February 1 (code 002139). (FAFSA's Web site is www.FAFSA.ed.gov.)

Am I eligible for merit-based scholarships if I apply Early Decision?

Yes. If your academic profile makes you eligible for a merit-based scholarship, you will be awarded the scholarship at the time of admission. Presidential Scholars who are eligible for the Traina or Strassler Scholarships will be invited to interview on campus in February. Early Decision candidates who are interested in the Making a Difference Scholarship should submit the scholarship application by December 1. You will be notified about the scholarship in late December.

If I apply to Clark's Early Decision program, can I apply to other schools?

Yes, you can apply to other colleges or universities. However, applying as an Early Decision candidate does mean you must withdraw those applications once you have accepted our offer of admission.

What if I am not admitted Early Decision?

Some Early Decision candidates will be deferred to the regular admission pool. Candidates will automatically be reconsidered in March. We welcome any additional information such as senior grades, additional standardized test scores or recommendations. In addition, some applicants may be denied admission during the Early Decision review.