American University adds Early Decision Round II

American University has taken the unusual step of changing admissions policies midseason. In a notice sent to counselors and potential applicants, American announced a decision to open a second round of early decision (ED) for those students willing to commit to a binding early admission for the fall of 2012.

“Since American University’s initial Early Decision deadline passed, many students who missed the opportunity have expressed an interest in committing to American University as their first-choice institution,” said Greg Grauman, director of admissions. “Given such high interest, we have decided to open up a second round of Early Decision.”

The deadline to apply for AU’s Early Decision Round II is January 15, 2012. Students applying for ED Round II will be notified of the admissions decision as well as financial aid, honors, and merit scholarship status (if applicable) by February 15.

In exchange for being admitted early, students agree to enroll at American University and to withdraw all other applications. Students who have already applied regular decision and would now like to be considered for early decision simply need to submit the Early Decision Agreement by the January 15 deadline. And if they wish to be considered for need-based financial aid, they must complete the CSS Profile form and submit it to the College Board by January 15. The FAFSA must be submitted no later than February 15, 2012.

Note that the test optional policy does not apply for American’s Early Decision Round II. AU requires official scores from the SAT I or ACT with writing from all students who apply after November 1^st.

According to the admissions office, students willing to commit to a binding early decision application will not only get an early read on their credentials, but they are also likely to have an admissions advantage over students applying regular decision.

More information on American’s Early Decision Round II option may be found on the AU website.