Admission Options

Different Admission Options

Merrimack understands that each prospective student has a unique set of needs and there are several admission options from which to choose.

Early Action for Freshman Applicants

Early Action is intended for students who are completing their senior year in high school and desire to have an admissions decision in December. Under the Early Action plan, your application materials—including your Common Application—must be received on or before November 15.  This is a non-binding program.

Deposits are due by May 1.  Early action candidates not granted Early Action will still receive full consideration for the fall term. Notification to the candidate of the College’s decision on admission will then be made on a rolling basis.

Early Decision for Freshman Applicants

Early Decision is intended for students who are completing their senior year in high school and who consider Merrimack College their top choice.  Under the Early Decision plan, your application materials— including your Common Application and Early Decision Agreement —must be received on or before November 15. This is a binding program. If you apply to Merrimack for early decision, applying to other colleges through the regular admission process is allowed. If you are accepted to Merrimack through early decision, all other applications must be withdrawn.

Deposits are due by January 15. Early decision candidates not granted Early decision will still receive full consideration for the fall term. Notification to the candidate of the College’s decision on admission will then be made mid-March.

Rolling Decision for Freshman Applicants

Applications completed between November 16 and August 1 will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Decisions will be sent out typically within two weeks of application completion and deposits are rolling based on time of admission. This rolling admission plan is a flexible option for students, offering a longer window of time to apply and make a decision.

Financial Aid Timelines

FAFSA deadlines are changing and will look a little different than previous years. As more information becomes available our team will be in touch.

Early Acceptance

Students may be considered for admission after completing their junior year if they have achieved a consistent and superior academic record. All early acceptance candidates must be recommended by their high school principal or director of guidance. General application procedures and deadlines are the same as for seniors. Students must meet the normal admission requirements (except for the number of academic courses).