An Education That Pays Off
When you know Furman is your top choice, Early Decision gives you exclusive benefits and peace of mind while securing your spot at one of the nation’s most innovative schools. With $93.5 million in total financial assistance awarded annually, Early Decision students get first access to these resources.
We Know Cost Matters. That’s Why We Offer Early Aid Estimates
Wondering if Furman is affordable before committing? We get it. That’s why we’re happy to provide an early aid estimate so you can apply Early Decision with confidence. Our financial aid team will work with you before you apply to show you real numbers and need-based aid. With 99% of students receiving institutional aid, we’re committed to making Furman accessible for talented students like you.
Here's What You Get as an Early Decision Student
Being Admitted Early Decision Comes with Distinct Advantages:
- Early course registration for your first semester, first-year classes
- Placement in one of your top three preferred first-year residence halls
- Placement in one of your top three preferred First Year Writing Seminar courses
- Fully enjoy your senior year knowing you are now officially a Paladin!
Plus These Furman Exclusives:
- Guaranteed spot in our award-winning Pathways Program (the only 2-year advising program in the nation)
- Priority consideration for merit scholarships
Peace of mind with your early aid estimate and financial aid package arriving with your acceptance
Students who apply early decision tell us
- “I knew Furman was my #1 choice”
- “I wanted to secure my spot in this close-knit community”
- “I was ready to focus on preparing for college instead of applications”
- “I didn’t want to wait until spring to know where I was going”
Ready to join them? Early Decision shows us Furman is your clear first choice — and we reward that commitment with exclusive benefits.
Choose Your Timeline
We offer two Early Decision deadlines to fit your schedule:
Early Decision I
Apply by: November 1
Hear back by: November 15
Early Decision II
Apply by: January 15
Hear back by: February 1
Remember: Both are binding, meaning if you’re accepted, you’re coming to Furman!
Here’s Your Next Step
Submit Your Early Decision Application by Nov. 1st!
Top 3 Early Decision Myths
Myth #1: “I’ll get less financial aid if I apply Early Decision”
Reality: Early Decision students receive the same generous financial aid consideration as all applicants. 99% of our students receive institutional aid. Plus, you’ll know your aid package early — we provide early aid estimates and financial aid notifications with your acceptance letter so you can plan with confidence.
Myth #2: “Early Decision is only for students who have everything figured out”
Reality: You don’t need to know your major or have your entire future mapped out! Early Decision is simply about knowing Furman is where you want to spend the next four years. Our Pathways Program and liberal arts curriculum are designed to help you explore and discover your passions. Over 30% of Furman students change their major at least once — and that’s perfectly okay.
Myth #3: “If I don’t get in Early Decision, I can’t apply Regular Decision”
Reality: if you’re deferred during Early Decision, your application will be automatically reconsidered during Regular Decision. Some students who weren’t quite ready for ED admission have strengthened their applications with fall semester grades and activities and been admitted Regular Decision. We want to find the right fit just as much as you do!
More Questions?
Office of Admissions
864.294.2034 | [email protected]
Early Decision is a binding commitment. Once you’re admitted, you’ll withdraw applications from other schools and join the Furman family.