Early Decision Benefits at Fordham

If Fordham is your top choice, we recommend that you consider applying Early Decision.

Students who choose Fordham through Early Decision are making a big commitment to us. That’s why we want to show our commitment to you. Students who are admitted through our Early Decision rounds will receive additional benefits—both in the application process and once you arrive on campus.

What is Early Decision?

Early Decision is a binding application, meaning that if you’re admitted you must enroll at Fordham and withdraw any other college applications you submitted.

We offer two rounds of Early Decision:

• ED I: Application due November 1 
• ED II: Application due January 3

Why apply Early Decision?

If you’re admitted through Early Decision, you can take advantage of a variety of benefits here to help you on your journey.

College certainty 

There is no substitute for peace of mind. If you’re admitted through Early Decision, you don’t have to stress. ED I decisions are released in mid-December and ED II decisions are released in mid-February. This means once you’re in, your college search is over and you can enjoy the majority of your senior year.

Early financial aid review

To ensure you and your family can make a confident, informed commitment, Fordham is dedicated to providing an early financial aid review to provide you with an estimated award amount to help you decide if a Fordham education is financially possible for your family. To receive your early review starting in October, you must submit the following by your respective ED I or ED II deadline:

• Your application to Fordham for Fall 2027 (via the Common App)
• Your completed 2027–2028 CSS Profile and FAFSA (opens October 1)

Preview your college experience

See what it’s like to be a Fordham student firsthand. Once you submit your Early Decision application, you'll be able to attend a Fordham class on campus in November. Take advantage of the opportunity to interact with students and professors, preview a course in your chosen college, and get a taste of what your life could look like here.

Financial aid package 

Students admitted through Early Decision will receive their full financial aid package along with their admission decision, giving you all your information at the same time.

Early academic advising

Get a head start on planning your Fordham education. As an Early Decision student, you will receive priority access to academic planning, registration preparation, and opportunities to connect with academic advising, helping you feel prepared when new student registration begins.

Priority housing access

If you’re admitted as an Early Decision student, you’ll receive top priority for first-year housing at both the Rose Hill and Lincoln Center campuses. While specific residence halls cannot be guaranteed, this gives you the best chance at securing your top choice.

Fordham London study abroad grant

Want to take your education global? Students admitted in Early Decision will have access to a $5,000 study aboard grant to spend a semester at Fordham London starting your sophomore year. More than 50% of Fordham undergraduate students study abroad.