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Early Decision (Binding): November 1

Applying Early Decision may be an option for you if you are certain that URI is your first choice university. As noted in the Early Decision agreement (signed and submitted as part of the application), students may apply Early Decision to only one college.

Early Action (Non-Binding): December 1

Early Action (EA) is considered “non-binding,” because you may apply to as many colleges as you like without making a commitment to attend if you 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.

• 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 grades, you will be released from the ED agreement. Under these circumstances, your application will be moved to the Regular Decision group and you will receive your decision by the end of March.
• If you are admitted through the ED process, you are then required to withdraw your application to other colleges.
• If you are eligible for merit scholarships, you will receive that information in your acceptance letter. You will need to submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to be considered for need-based financial aid. 
• The Early Decision option is referred to as “binding” because you are committing to enroll at URI if you’re admitted.

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.