State university decisions

Overview

State flagship universities and large publics release decisions throughout March. Rolling admissions at many; check each school's timing.

Typical Release Windows

• UT Austin, Michigan, UNC: Late March-April
• UVA, Illinois: Early-mid April
• Washington, Georgia: Mid-late March
• Ohio State, Penn State, Rutgers: Rolling (many already released)

Decision Types

• Admitted: Full admission, sometimes with honors consideration
• Admitted with program: Honors college, business school, engineering
• Admitted to specific major: Some schools admit by major
• Waitlisted: Some use waitlist
• Denied: Not admitted

Honors Colleges

Many flagships have separate honors programs:

• Separate applications (November-December)
• Decisions released alongside main admissions
• Access to scholarships and priority registration

In-State vs. Out-of-State

• Out-of-state admission more competitive at most flagships
• Financial aid lower for OOS
• Merit scholarships for high-stat OOS can close the gap

After Admission

1. Financial aid package (2-3 weeks)
2. Compare to other admissions
3. Attend Admitted Student Day
4. Explore housing and orientation
5. Commit by May 1

Major Merit Scholarships

• UT Austin: Forty Acres Scholars (full)
• Michigan: Shipman Scholars, Stamps
• UNC: Morehead-Cain (full ride), Robertson
• UVA: Jefferson Scholars (full ride)
• Alabama: Presidential, National Merit

Financial Aid Comparison

Compare in-state vs. OOS cost, institutional aid, federal/state aid, total COA.