Whitman College recently evaluated its Early Decision program given the current discussions on a national level.  After careful consideration, Whitman will continue to offer our Early Decision program.  While the College is certainly concerned about the issues related to Early Decision programs, we feel that our program continues to serve students well. 

The availability of an early decision program means we will continue to provide students with multiple options in their college search.  For students who have conducted a thorough college search and are ready to apply early in their senior year, our Early Decision program provides them that option.

All Early Decision applicants who are admitted and apply for financial aid are provided with their financial aid award before they make their decision about whether they plan to enroll.  Financial aid policies and eligibility are the same for all Early Decision and Regular Decision applicants.  Our Early Decision agreement allows a student to be released from the binding decision to enroll in cases of financial hardship. 

Our policy of limiting Early Decision spaces to no more than 25% of our entering class ensures that we have enough spaces for Regular Decision applicants.  In addition, a relatively small number of our applicants pursue the Early Decision program. 

Providing access for disadvantaged students is an institutional priority at Whitman, and the Early Decision program has not hindered our efforts.  In the last several years, Whitman has increased the number of students who represent ethnic and racial diversity as well as low-income students in its entering class.  About 20% of the fall 2006 entering class are African-American, Asian-American, Latino, or Native American.  The number of Pell Grant recipients in the Whitman student body has increased from 10% in 2003-04 to 14% in 2005-06.