Admission

Frequently Asked Questions
about the application process

The information on this page complements the instructions included in the "Application instructions and additional forms."  Read all instructions fully.

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

Your application should be postmarked by 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" or "Transfer Application" and your application fee or official waiver request by the deadline.  We will continue to accept supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, recommendations) through the dates noted in the accompanying publication, "Application instructions and additional forms."  All required items must be received in the admission office before the admission committee will begin reviewing the application.

How will I know that my application has been received?

• If you submit your application online, we will send you an email and postcard 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. If you do not get a notice of receipt within two weeks of submitting your application, send an email to appcoordinator@reed.edu.
• Set your email spam filter to accept communication from Reed—in particular, from appcoordinator@reed.edu and admission@reed.edu.

Will I be told if my application is incomplete?

When your application has been recorded, we will send you an email and a postcard with the information needed to check the status of your application online.  The status page will provide a list of items that are still needed to complete your application.

Does the presentation of my application matter?

• Do not put your application or credentials in any type of report cover or binder.
• Be sure that your application is legible, and that your legal name is on every piece of material that you submit.
• If you are applying as an Early Decision candidate, be sure to note "ED" and your name on each document you send.
• Send as much information as possible in a single envelope to expedite processing.

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.
• You must submit the Common Application electronically if you intend to submit any other required items via Common Application Online.

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.

I'm applying for financial aid.  How do I get information about my financial aid application?

Your admission and financial aid applications are separate.  For information about the status of your financial aid application, or other financial aid questions, please contact the financial aid office at 800/547-4750 (option 1), 503/777-7223, or financial.aid@reed.edu.

Optional items for your application:
What about creative supplements?

Creative supplements do not affect the admission decision.  If you choose to submit a creative supplement, follow these directions:

1. Do not send oversized items.  Items should be no larger than 9x11 ½ 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 (above).
4. CDs/DVDs should be submitted in protective sleeves, not jewel cases.
5. Submitted materials become the property of the college and will not be returned.

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

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