Early Decision

Students admitted to Bowdoin through Early Decision are expected to enroll, assuming that the financial aid package is appropriate.

ED admitted students who have demonstrated financial need will receive a financial aid package. The same need-based aid formula is used for all applicants, regardless of whether they are applying under Early or Regular Decision. Students are notified of the amount of their awards when they are accepted.

All ED candidates applying for aid should submit the College Scholarship Service (CSS) PROFILE, Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and all documents requested on their Financial Aid Checklist, which is available in the Application Portal after applying.

For further instructions on filing for financial aid, please visit the student aid website.

The Admissions Committee will make one of three decisions on each Early Decision application:

1. Admit
2. Defer
3. Deny

Students admitted under an ED program are expected to enroll at Bowdoin and to withdraw any applications to other institutions.

If the decision on an application has been deferred, that application will be reviewed during the Regular Decision round. In the meantime, feel free to submit an update in the new year on any activities or other relevant material you feel might be helpful. You can submit an update in your Application Portal or email us at admissions@bowdoin.edu. All final decisions will be sent in March.  

If an ED-deferred student is ultimately admitted to Bowdoin under Regular Decision, he or she is not obligated to enroll.

Students denied Early Decision may not apply again under Regular Decision.