Fall first-year applicants who apply by the November 1 deadline are typically eager to get their decision sooner and want to demonstrate a strong interest to the admission committee. The biggest factor in whether you apply Early Decision I versus Early Action is whether or not your college plans depend on financial aid. If financial aid is not a factor, apply Early Decision I. If financial aid is a factor, apply Early Action.
Students who apply by the January 5 deadline typically have stronger applications by the later deadline than they would have by November 1. The biggest factor in whether you apply Early Decision II or Regular Decision is whether or not the decision depends on financial aid. If financial aid is not a factor, apply Early Decision II. If financial aid is a factor, apply Regular Decision.
How do I know which college admission plan to pick?
Think of it this way: Early Decision I and Early Decision II are binding agreements. If admitted, you’re committed to attending. Early Action and Regular Decision provide flexibility to apply first and weigh your options later.
Which college admission plan gives me the best chance of getting in?
This changes annually, but most admitted students applied Early Decision I, Early Action, or Early Decision II. Early Action is a great option to show the admission committee that the University of Miami is your top choice, but you don’t want to commit financially yet. Early Decision I and Early Decision II also show the admission committee that the University of Miami is your top choice and that you’re committed to attending if you get admitted.
Quick Answers
Which college admission plan is best for you?
Apply by November 1 with Early Action or Early Decision I if you’re interested in getting your decision sooner. Early Action is best if your decision depends on financial aid and merit scholarships. Early Decision I is best if you’re sure UM is where you want to be no matter what.
Apply by the January 5 Early Decision II deadline if you need more time to build a stronger application and you’re sure UM is where you want to be no matter what.
Regular Decision is best if you need more time to build a stronger application and you want to weigh your options before deciding where to go to college.
Does the University of Miami accept applications to start in the spring?
Yes. First-year applicants can apply for a spring start by November 1, and you’ll get your admission decision in early December.
Does the University of Miami accept transfer applications?
Yes. To enroll in the fall semester, apply by April 1. To enroll in the spring semester, apply by November 1. Decision notifications are released on a rolling basis.
