Early Decision

You know Reed is the right fit

For some students, the college decision becomes clear early and they are ready to move forward with confidence and clarity. If you can see yourself here—writing a senior thesis, participating in conference-style classes, and building your intellectual life alongside others who care as much as you do—ED lets you act on that clarity.

You show us what Reed means to you

Applying ED tells us that Reed is your first choice. That level of commitment matters.

ED applicants are twice as likely to be admitted. In part, that reflects a shared sense of purpose. Students who choose Reed, and show it clearly, tend to be strong matches for what the college offers.

You move through the process with clarity

If admitted through ED I, your college search concludes in December. ED II applicants receive a decision in March. Either way, you can move through the rest of your senior year with fewer uncertainties. 

You join a community that chose Reed on purpose

About 30 percent of each incoming class applies through ED. These students arrive having already made a clear and intentional choice, which shapes the academic and residential experience from the start.

You should not have to guess what Reed will cost.

Reed meets 100 percent of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students. This is true whether you apply Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision.

If you apply for financial aid, you will submit the same materials as any other applicant. Our financial aid team will work with you to ensure your information is complete and accurate.

If your financial aid offer does not meet your family’s needs, you are not locked in. You can speak with our financial aid office, and if the package is not feasible, you will be released from your Early Decision agreement.

Early Decision Aid Review

If you want more financial clarity before committing, Reed offers an Early Decision Aid Review.

This allows you to receive an estimated financial aid package before you apply ED I or ED II. You can better understand what your Reed education may cost and make your decision with full information.

ED is a binding application plan for students who are ready to commit to Reed.

• You may apply to only one college through Early Decision I or Early Decision II
• You may still apply to other schools through Early Action or Regular Decision
• If you are admitted to Reed through an Early Decision I or Early Decision II application, you must withdraw your other applications and enroll
• Early Decision I and Early Decision II applicants will submit an Early Decision Agreement. Signed by the applicant, parent/guardian, and high school counselor

Reed offers two Early Decision applications:

• Apply by November 1
• Receive your decision in December
• Reply within two weeks of receiving your decision
• Suggested interview deadline: November 15

• Apply by January 15
• Receive your decision in February
• Reply within two weeks of receiving your decision
• Suggested interview deadline: January 31

• Early Decision: Binding. Best for students who are ready to commit to Reed as their first choice.
• Early Action: Non-binding. Apply early and keep your options open.
• Regular Decision: More time to apply and compare offers before deciding.

• You may apply Early Decision to only one college
• You may apply to other schools through Early Action or Regular Decision
• To apply Early Decision, select ED I or ED II in the Common Application or Coalition Application
• If admitted to Reed through ED, you will withdraw your other applications and enroll
• If you are denied through ED, you cannot reapply in the same year
• International students are welcome to apply through Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision.