Admission

Frequently Asked Questions
about the application process

eliot

Application deadline:  Does the deadline refer to postmark or to receipt date?

Your application should be POSTMARKED by or before the deadline.  Postmarking before the deadline will expedite the processing of your application.

What if I'm having trouble getting part of my application in by the deadline?

  •  It is essential that we have the form "First Year Application" and your application fee or official waiver request by the deadline. All required items must be received in the admission office before the Admission Committee will begin reviewing the application. However, we will continue to accept supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, letters of recommendations) through March 1. Those whose applications have not become complete by March 1 will be at a disadvantage when financial aid awards are made; in addition, these applicants may receive a late admission decision.
  •  If you are applying as an Early Decision candidate, be sure to note "ED" and your name on each document you send.
  •  Please send as much information as possible in a single envelope to expedite processing.

How will I know that my application arrived?

  •  If you submit your application online, we will send you an email within 24 hours of receiving your application online.
  •  If you submit your application in paper form, we will acknowledge receipt by email and postcard within 24 hours of recording your application to our database.
  •  Please be sure that your email spam filter is set to accept communication from Reed--in particular, from appcoordinator@reed.edu and admission@reed.edu.
  •  If you do not receive notice of receipt by February 5, please send an email to: appcoordinator@reed.edu.

Will I be told if my application is incomplete?

  •  Yes.  When your application has been recorded, we will email and snail mail you the information needed to check the status of your application online.  Your permanent Reed ID will be provided.  Reed does not use social security numbers for identification. 
  •  If, as of February 1, your regular decision application remains incomplete, you'll receive another email and postcard in early February and again in late February, if needed.

Does the "presentation" of my application matter?

Do not put your application or credentials in any type of report cover or binder.  However, be sure that your application is legible, and that your legal name is on every piece of material that you submit.

Can I send other credentials before I send my application?

We encourage sending credentials for your application before the deadline.  Be sure to put your full legal name on every page.  We have extensive procedures in place to ensure the items are connected to your application.

If I have questions about my application, how/whom do I ask?

You can email appcoordinator@reed.edu.  Emails are responded to on the next business day.  We prefer to receive inquiries by email rather than by telephone. 

What about creative supplements?

If you choose to submit a creative supplement, please follow these guidelines:

  1. Do not send oversized items.  Items should not be larger than 9 x 11 1/2 inches.
  2. Do not put items in any type of report cover or binder.
  3. Slides and/or photos may be placed in slide pockets that meet the size requirement.
  4. CDs/DVDs should be submitted in protective sleeves, not jewel cases.
  5. Submitted materials become the property of the college and are not returnable.
  6. Creative supplements are reviewed only by the Admission Committee and not by faculty.

Should I/can I submit certificates to show participation in activities?

We prefer not to receive activity certificates.  The listing of your extra-curricular activities on the application form is sufficient.