Early Decision is designed for students who have thoroughly researched their college options and have decided unequivocally that Tufts is their first choice. This binding program requires all students who are admitted under Early Decision to enroll at Tufts. In addition to the application materials that must be submitted by the stated deadlines, we also require the Early Decision Agreement Form that must be signed by the student, parent or guardian and guidance counselor. This form acknowledges that the student wishes to be considered under the Early Decision Program. The Early Decision form can be found on the Common Application site when you apply.
What is the Early Decision deadline and when will I hear from Tufts?
Students may apply for Early Decision I or Early Decision II. Applications for Early Decision I must be postmarked by November 2nd and students will receive a decision by December 15th. Applications for Early Decision II must be postmarked by January 4th and students will receive a decision in early February.
Do you defer students?
If a student applies early, one of three things can occur: he or she can be accepted, deferred, or denied. If accepted, the decision is binding and the student has agreed to come to Tufts. If denied, the student is out of the applicant pool and unable to reapply for that academic year. If deferred, the student is sent into the regular decision applicant pool and would not need to reapply. Deferred students receive their admission decision in early April.
Is it easier or more difficult to be admitted Early Decision?
Applicants must be equally qualified to be accepted regardless of early decision or regular decision. Our standards do not change; bearing that in mind, it is not more difficult to be admitted regular or early.
I plan to take the ACTs or SATs at the end of October. Would this test date, which I know is very close to the Early Decision deadline, affect my application, or would Tufts accept my score when I receive it, most likely within a couple of days of the deadline?
Tufts will accept test scores taken in October and November. Scores should be sent to Tufts directly from the testing agency. They do not need to be rushed. You should also note in the testing section of The Common Application that your scores are forthcoming.