10 reasons to submit your enrollment deposit before College Decision Day
For high school seniors across the country, submitting your college enrollment deposit is a significant milestone. It not only is the culmination of the college admissions process, but also secures your spot at your preferred school for the fall.
For many, this decision aligns with national College Decision Day. But, you might not want to wait that long. Submitting your deposit early will help you take advantage of first-choice options and it alleviates last-minute stress. Here are ten reasons to submit your enrollment deposit before College Decision Day.
Ready to take your next steps at Central Michigan University? Submit your deposit now so you can get started on orientation and housing.
What is College Decision Day?
National College Decision Day is celebrated annually, on May 1. It marks the unofficial deadline for students to select a college or university. Students who have applied and received acceptance from multiple schools will choose which institution they would like to attend in the fall. They make this selection by accepting their enrollment and submitting a deposit at their school of choice.
College Decision Day helps schools finalize their incoming class and offer up spots to waitlisted students. However, it is an unofficial deadline. Many schools or universities will continue to accept your enrollment after May 1. Some may even accept enrollment up until the start of classes.
Students who have applied through early admissions programs, like Early Action or Early Decision, may have already committed to schools earlier in the year.
Make sure to check the timelines at your college or university. Knowing deadlines can help you plan effectively and make an informed decision about your future.
What is an enrollment deposit?
An enrollment deposit is a fee you pay to secure your spot at a college or university after you've been accepted. This deposit confirms your intention to attend the institution, reserving a place for you in the incoming class. The amount usually ranges from $100 to $500.
Your deposit may cover your orientation fee or be applied to your fall tuition fees. In most cases, your deposit is not a binding contract, meaning you can still change your mind later. Some colleges and universities will even refund your deposit if you change your mind before College Decision Day. Be sure to review all deadlines and refund information at your specific college or university before you deposit.
10 reasons to submit your enrollment deposit early
1. Secure your spot
Colleges have a limited number of spots available for incoming students. By submitting your enrollment deposit early, you ensure that your place is secured before the spots fill up. This is particularly important for popular programs or courses with limited enrollment capacities. By acting quickly, you ensure you’ll have a spot in your desired program.
2. Get access to first-choice orientation dates
Many colleges offer orientation programs that help new students acclimate to campus life. By submitting your enrollment deposit early, you’ll have your first choice of orientation dates. This can be especially important if you need to travel to your new college or university to attend orientation. Early orientation can also provide valuable insights into college resources. You can start taking advantage of resources right away and get a head start adjusting to your new environment.
3. Access to early class registration
Submitting your enrollment deposit early can often grant you access to class registration, either online or through your orientation. Submitting your deposit early may mean you get a wider selection of courses. Early registration can be crucial if you have specific requirements or classes you need to take to stay on track for graduation. Even if you are still an undecided student, early class registration can be a big bonus. You’ll get first pick at class times so you can build a schedule that best suits you.
4. Priority housing
On-campus housing is another aspect of college life that fills up quickly. Many universities offer housing assignments on a first-come, first-served basis. By paying your enrollment deposit early, you increase your chances of getting your preferred housing option. Whether it's a specific dorm or a roommate you've already connected with, submitting your deposit early can help you secure your top choices.
5. Ease financial planning
Paying your enrollment deposit early can also help you organize your finances. It allows you to budget your expenses and prepare for upcoming costs associated with college life, such as textbooks and supplies. Getting this financial obligation out of the way early can help reduce last-minute financial stress as your move-in date approaches.
6. Enhance scholarship opportunities
Many colleges and universities have scholarships for specific programs. By deciding which college to attend and submitting an early deposit, you’ll open additional scholarship opportunities. It also will give you enough time to prepare materials for early winter and spring deadlines.
7. Peace of mind
Submitting your deposit early can provide a sense of relief and accomplishment. Once your deposit is in, you can focus on other important tasks like financial aid applications and housing planning. Having one major decision checked off your list can make the transition to college feel more manageable.
8. Start building your college network
Submitting your enrollment deposit early allows you to start engaging with your future classmates and professors sooner. Many colleges have online groups or forums for incoming students. Early participation can help you make connections, find study partners and get advice from current students or alumni.
9. Customize your college experience
With an early deposit, you might be able to have more input into your college experience, such as participating in unique freshmen programs over the summer. The earlier you submit your deposit, the earlier you can explore these opportunities.
10. Focus on finishing up your senior year
It can be difficult to manage both your high school obligations and your college transition check list. This is especially true if you’re involved in spring activities like sports, music or performance. Submitting your enrollment deposit early can tick one more thing off the to-do list and allow you to focus on finishing your senior year strong.
Conclusion
Submitting your enrollment deposit before College Decision Day can make your transition to college smoother and less stressful. Making your choice early means you can take advantage of financial planning opportunities, first-choice dates and classes and even help you finish your senior year strong.
For more information about enrollment deposits and the college admissions process, check out the admitted page on Central Michigan University's website. If you’re an accepted student, you can submit your deposit by logging into your application portal. You’ll use the same log in information as when you applied.
Early action can make a significant difference in your college experience, so take the plunge and submit that deposit!