Early Decision Option

The Early Decision Option (EDO) is designed for full and part-time prospective first-year law candidates who are positive that American University Washington College of Law (AUWCL) is their first choice. The EDO process is easy and efficient. By applying through this process candidates save time, money, effort and the stress that comes with deciding between multiple law schools. We expect EDO candidates have researched a range of law schools and are committed to enrolling at AUWCL in the fall if offered admission.

Please note: EDO is binding and is not recommended for candidates who need to know their full financial aid package before deciding whether to enroll. Candidates admitted through this option are considered for merit scholarships and institutional need-based grants on the same terms as non-early decision candidates; however, they may not have received financial aid information prior to their seat deposit deadline. EDO candidates should therefore be committed to attending AUWCL regardless of financial aid.

Applicants have the choice to apply for two separate Early Decision Options - Round 1 or Round 2.

Fall 2024 Early Decision Deadlines:
  Round 1 Early Decision Round 2 Early Decision
Application Completion Deadline December 12, 2023 - by 4:00pm ET
(must take LSAT by November test or GRE by November 18)
February 9, 2024 - by 4:00pm ET
(must take LSAT by January test or GRE by January 31)
Notification Date December 20, 2023 February 16, 2024
Seat Deposit Deadline January 5, 2024 - by 4:00pm ET March 4, 2024 - by 4:00pm ET

Requirements for the Early Decision Option:

 
  • Your file is complete when we have received your completed application with all required questions answered, personal statement, resume, at least one LSAT or GRE score, CAS report (including all undergraduate transcripts and at least one letter of recommendation), and the completed Early Decision Option Certification.
  • You may not apply for another binding early decision program at another law school.
  • If admitted to American University Washington College of Law under the Early Decision Option you must:
    • Submit a non-refundable tuition deposit of $900 by January 5, 2024 (Round 1) or March 4, 2024 (Round 2)
    • Enroll at AUWCL
    • Withdraw all applications at other law schools regardless of your status
    • Not initiate any new applications
    • Not defer admission to a later year
    • Not switch between the full-time and part-time programs prior to enrollment

PLEASE NOTE: Failure to comply with the terms of this agreement may have consequences. American University Washington College of Law reserves the right to report violations of this agreement of any kind to appropriate organizations including, but not limited to, the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), state bar associations, and other law schools.