Early Decision

Is Whitman College one of your top choices for college?

Apply Early Decision!

We offer two Early Decision application dates: Nov. 15 (Early Decision I) and Jan. 10 (Early Decision II). All application materials and financial aid forms must be received by these dates to qualify. You will be notified about admission and financial aid approximately one month after the deadline: mid-December for Early Decision I applicants, and by the beginning of February for Early Decision II applicants.

Here are a few of the most common questions we receive regarding applying Early Decision.

What does it mean to apply Early Decision?

When you apply Early Decision, you are committed to enrolling at Whitman once admitted. That means withdrawing your applications from any other colleges as long as Whitman provides a financial aid award that makes attendance possible. We take this commitment seriously, and we expect that you will also.

How do I indicate I want to apply Early Decision on my application?

On your Common Application, select either Early Decision I or Early Decision II on the Whitman College-specific section. You’ll also need to electronically sign the Early Decision Agreement Form and provide email addresses for a parent/guardian and your school counselor, each of whom will need to electronically sign the agreement as well. You can also print the form, sign it and send it to: Admission Office, 345 Boyer Ave., Walla Walla, WA 99362.

I'm an international student. Can I apply Early Decision?

Yes! Early Decision applications from international students are welcome at Whitman College. International students can apply for either the ED I or ED II deadline.

Though we attempt to make final admission decisions for international students who apply Early Decision, it is possible that your application will be deferred to Regular Decision for consideration with the entire international applicant pool. If you have questions, please contact us at international@whitman.edu or call 509-527-5176.

Why should I apply Early Decision?

Applying Early Decision means that you will find out about admission several months before regular applicants. This allows you to spend your final semester of high school focused on your classes and making memories, not worrying about college applications.

What about financial aid?

You will receive your offer of financial aid with your admission packet, so it’s important you complete your FAFSA and CSS Profile by the application deadline if you are applying for need-based aid. International students must submit the Whitman International Student Financial Aid Application (WISFAA). Your financial aid offer will include a breakdown of what we are offering you, including scholarships, grants, federal or state work study, and loans. However, if our generous aid package doesn’t quite meet your needs, you can be released from your Early Decision agreement. Learn more about financial aid at Whitman.

Am I more likely to be admitted if I apply Early Decision?

We look for the same things whether you apply Early Decision or Regular Decision: intellectual curiosity, strong writing ability, meaningful commitment to your community, and potential to make a positive impact in the Whitman and Walla Walla communities. However, Early Decision applicants are admitted at higher rates than Regular Decision applicants (77 percent of early applicants admitted vs 46 percent of regular applicants last year). Why? Because early applicants stand out in every way: your decision to make Whitman your first choice and the extra care and attention we see in your applications makes all the difference.

What are the deadlines?

To apply for Early Decision I, and receive your admissions notice by mid-December, turn in your application and financial aid forms by Nov. 15. For Early Decision II, with notification by the beginning of February, all materials must be received by Jan. 10. The deadline for regular admission is Jan. 15. Admission notification for regular decision students is late March.

Can I get a fee waiver on my Early Decision application?

Whitman College waives our $50 application fee for all applications submitted before Dec. 1. We also waive the application fee for first-generation college students, students from Eastern Washington and any students who have a financial hardship who apply after Dec. 1. For more information about fee waivers, call the Office at Admission at 509-527-5176 or send an email to admission@whitman.edu.