Review all acceptances

Overview

By early April, all regular decisions are in. Now the real work: comparing admissions and financial aid packages to make the best decision by May 1.

Review Process

1. List all admissions offers
2. Record financial aid for each
3. Calculate true out-of-pocket cost per year and for 4 years
4. Visit or virtually revisit top candidates
5. Engage admitted-student community

Comparison Matrix

Create side-by-side for each school:

• Academic programs for your major
• Campus culture and community
• Location and climate
• Size and student body
• 4-year net cost (out of pocket)
• Debt burden at graduation
• Career outcomes for your intended field
• Graduate school placement (if relevant)
• Study abroad opportunities
• Research opportunities for undergrads
• Honors college or special programs

Non-Obvious Factors

• Weather affect on your mental health
• Distance from family (travel costs, frequency)
• Diversity of student body
• Political climate on campus
• Religious or cultural community availability
• Disability services if relevant
• Mental health resources

Costs Beyond Tuition

• Travel home (how often, how far)
• Summer storage
• Health insurance costs
• Meal plan flexibility
• Required technology purchases

Gut Check

After analytical comparison, ask:

• Where can I imagine myself thriving?
• Where do I feel at home when I visit?
• Where would I regret not attending?

Decision Framework

• If cost is similar: choose based on fit
• If cost differs significantly: weigh financial burden
• If one is your dream but expensive: consider if reach for aid makes sense

What Not to Do

• Commit immediately to a "dream" school without financial comparison
• Let rankings drive decisions
• Follow a partner or friend's choice
• Ignore affordability
• Delay past May 1

Getting Input

• Parents (financial, values alignment)
• Counselor (professional perspective)
• Current students (authentic view)
• Alumni (career outcomes)

Red Flag Schools

• Admit rate significantly higher than peers → evaluate fit carefully
• Low graduation rate → concerning
• Large athletic or Greek focus if you're not interested
• Heavy loan offers that don't seem to fit your profile

Final Decision Timing

• Visit admitted student days (early-mid April)
• Finalize aid comparisons by April 15
• Make decision by April 25
• Submit SIR by May 1