If you’ve been juggling acceptance letters, financial aid offers, and those feelings of the unknown, it’s time to focus: May 1st is National College Decision Day. As a reminder, it’s the deadline by which most colleges expect you to officially commit by submitting your enrollment deposit. So, how do you make that choice and feel good about it? Let’s talk about just that!
Understand What You’re Saying “Yes” To
Committing to a school means you’re ready to invest your time, energy, and money there. You’re not just choosing a campus — you’re choosing a community, a support system, and a place to grow, learn, and live for the next four years.
Before you commit, make sure you’ve looked at:
- Your financial aid package (What’s a grant vs a loan? Which aid is renewable?).
- The total cost of attendance, not just tuition.
- What you’ll get academically, socially, and emotionally from the school.
Make sure all components feel like the right fit.
Compare Your Financial Aid Offers
Not all aid packages are created equal. Some schools might offer you more money up front but have higher living costs or fewer scholarships that renew after your first year.Make a quick spreadsheet or use one of those online comparison tools. If you’re confused about what’s what, reach out to the school’s financial aid office or your high school counselor — or you can reach out and we can talk.
Notify Other Schools
Once you commit to your top choice, take a moment to decline the other offers. It’s good manners, helps free up spots for other students, and avoids unnecessary emails and reminders. It’s the polite thing to do and most schools require a response either way.
Transfers Can Happen
Putting down a deposit doesn’t mean you can never change your mind. Life happens. Circumstances change. Transferring later is possible — but try to commit based on what you know about your school choices, finances, and how you feel now. That said, those deposits are usually non-refundable, so make sure you’re fairly confident before you click “submit.”
Celebrate! You’ve Earned This
Whether you’re headed to a state school, a liberal arts college, a community college, or something else entirely, take a second to breathe and pat yourself on the back. This journey has been a long one, and you made it through.
More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors
Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.