About

Early Decision (Binding): November 1

Applying Early Decision (ED) may be an option for students who are confident that the University of Rhode Island is their first-choice university. While we encourage students to apply to multiple colleges and consider all of their options, we understand that some students and families may prefer to apply early, hear early, and make an early, binding commitment to URI. For those students and families, ED is available.

As part of the ED process, students and a parent/guardian sign the Early Decision Agreement, confirming that they are applying to only one school under this plan.

Early Action (Non-Binding): December 1

Early Action (EA) is considered “non-binding,” because students may apply to as many colleges as they like without making a commitment to attend if they are admitted. December 1 is also our priority scholarship deadline for first-year students.

Early Decision (ED) Agreement

Important Details

If you submit your application and supporting materials by the November 1 deadline, you will receive an admission decision in early December. Once accepted, submit enrollment and housing deposits by February 1 or within two weeks of receiving your financial aid award if you have applied for financial aid.

• Binding Commitment: If admitted through Early Decision, you agree to enroll at URI and withdraw your applications from other colleges. 
• Scholarship and Aid:
  • If applicable, merit scholarship information will be included in your acceptance letter.
  • To be considered for need-based aid, we encourage you to submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) by the January 15 priority deadline. 
• Exceptions to the Commitment:
  • If you are not admitted to your first-choice major, you will be released from the ED agreement. 
  • If the Office of Admission requests your senior-year grades, you will be released from the ED agreement. 
  • Under these circumstances, your application will move to the Regular Decision pool, and you will receive a decision by late March.

Is Applying Early Decision Right for You?

ED can be a great fit if you:

• are certain that URI is your top choice
• have researched your options and are confident in your decision academically, socially, and financially

ED is not required to be admitted to URI, and may not be the best path if you’d like to compare admission offers, merit awards, and financial aid packages from multiple schools, or need more time to make your choice. You should only choose ED if you are ready to make a commitment without feeling pressured to do so.

ED is not an option for Rhode Island students who are applying to the Talent Development Program. 

Early Action (EA)

Important Details

If you submit your completed application and supporting materials by December 1, you will receive your admission decision before the end of January. You will not be required to pay your enrollment deposit until May 1.

• If we request your mid-year grades, your application will be moved to the Regular Decision group and you will receive your decision by the end of March.
• If you are eligible for a merit scholarship, that information will be included in your acceptance letter.
• To be considered for need-based financial aid, you will be required to submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
• Financial aid awards are typically released in March.