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12 reasons to submit your enrollment deposit before College Decision Day

Paying your college enrollment deposit is a major milestone for high school students. It's the final step of the admission process and it secures your spot at your chosen college or university for the fall.

While many students wait until National College Decision Day on May 1, there are some major advantages to submitting your deposit early.

Ready to take your next steps at Central Michigan University? Submit your deposit now so you can get started on orientation and housing. 

Submit my enrollment deposit

What is College Decision Day?

National College Decision Day is celebrated annually on May 1. It marks the unofficial deadline for students to select where they'll attend school in the fall. Students commit by accepting an offer and paying their enrollment deposit. Colleges use this date to help finalize their incoming class and offer open spots to waitlisted students. 

College Decision Day is an unofficial deadline. Many schools or universities will continue to accept your enrollment deposit after May 1. Some may even accept a deposit 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 that secures your place at a college or university. This fee typically ranges from $100 to $500. Depending on the school, your deposit can cover your orientation fee or apply to your fall tuition. >

>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. 

12 reasons to submit your deposit before College Decision Day

1. Secure your spot

Colleges have a limited number of spots available for incoming students. Popular programs can fill quickly too. An early enrollment deposit ensure you'll have a place in your preferred program. 

2. Get first-choice orientation dates

Most colleges hold orientation programs to help new students join a campus community. Depositing early gives you priority for signing up for orientation dates. This can be especially important if you need to travel to your new college or university. 

3. Register for classes sooner 

Submitting your enrollment deposit often unlocks class registration, either online or at orientation. Committing early means you'll have first pick at class options and times. Early registration can be crucial if you have specific program requirements that have limited capacity.  

4. Priority housing

Many universities offer housing assignments on a first-come, first-served basis. Paying your enrollment deposit early increases your chances of getting the dorm, roommate or living style you want. It also gives you additional time to connect with your new roommates and start building relationships. 

5. Simplify financial planning

Taking care of your enrollment deposit early can help you budget and prepare for other expenses. You'll have more time to spread out costs like textbooks and supplies. Plus, getting this financial obligation out of the way early can help reduce last-minute financial stress. 

6. Boost scholarship opportunities

By committing before national college decision day, you'll be eligible to apply for additional scholarship opportunities. It also gives you more time to prepare materials for those early winter and spring scholarship 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 allows you to start engaging with your future classmates and professors. 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

Some colleges offer special summer programs for incoming students. The earlier you submit your deposit, the more time you'll have to explore these opportunities.

10. Get ahead on campus jobs

Many schools offer on-campus work opportunities, but positions can fill up quickly. By committing before the crowd, you'll get a jumpstart on exploring and apply for jobs on campus. 

11. More time to prepare for the move

Submitting your enrollment deposit early can give you extra time to plan for dorm essentials, travel and everything else that comes with moving away from home.

12. Focus on finishing up your senior year

Submitting your enrollment deposit early can tick off one more thing off the to-do list. You'll have more time and energy to focus on finishing spring activities like sports, performances and graduation.

Submitting your enrollment deposit at Central Michigan University 

A CMU staff member talks to a supporter gesturing to a pamphlet

Submitting your enrollment deposit before College Decision Day can make your transition to college smoother and less stressful. 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 ready to commit to Central Michigan University, submit your deposit by logging into your application portal. You'll use the same log in information as when you applied. 

Students who submit their CMU enrollment deposit before National College Decision Day, may be eligible for a refund if they change their mind. Students can also be eligible for a free gift. 

Don't wait! Secure your spot and get ready for an amazing year.

 

Blog: All Things Higher Ed posted | Last Modified: | Author: by University Communications | Categories: Admissions & Aid
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