Students

9 Reasons Why Applying Early Action is a Smart Move

Laurie Roberts
24 October 2024

Updated October 2024

As a busy high school student, applying Early Action to Johnson & Wales University may seem like just one more task to add to an already lengthy to-do list. However, if you’re looking for a university that offers a unique, hands-on approach to learning with proven alumni achievement, it's worth considering this admissions plan. Here are a few reasons why applying Early Action is a smart move for any high school senior.

1. No Fee to Apply

One of the most significant benefits of applying Early Action is that there are no fees associated with the application process. This means you can submit your application materials without worrying about additional expenses, allowing you to save your money for more important things like textbooks and student housing.

2. Wide Variety of Majors

With more than 65 majors, JWU is sure to have an area of study that interests you. Whether you’re interested in graphic design, psychology, culinary arts or computer science, there's a program that can help you get to where you want to go.

students working on graphic designs

3. Experiential Education

JWU has perfected experiential education and we emphasize hands-on learning in real-world situations. This approach to education integrates classroom learning with practical work experience - giving you the chance to build upon your knowledge and skills with résumé-worthy experiences.

Find Out More: Check out the latest student stories about experiential education at JWU.

4. Internships

Last year, JWU connected students to 793 internship sites in 44 states, giving students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and build their résumés before graduation. Internships are available to students in all majors and offer you the chance to explore your interests while also gaining valuable skills that will help you stand out to future employers.

5. Demonstrate Your Interest in JWU

When you apply Early Action, you show our Admissions Team that you're seriously interested in attending Johnson & Wales. Not only does this help your application stand out to our admissions counselors, but it also lets them know that JWU is one of your top choice schools. You’ll demonstrate your commitment to becoming a Wildcat — something we consider in our holistic application review.

Snowden Hall

6. Find Out Sooner

By applying Early Action by our November 17 deadline, you’ll get your decision by December 1, allowing you to make your plans for the future with more certainty and peace of mind.

7. Non-Binding Application

It's worth noting that applying Early Action is non-binding. This means that you can still choose to enroll elsewhere if you change your mind and decide that JWU isn’t the right fit for you after all.

8. Visit Grant

If you visit JWU before November 17 of your senior year of high school, you're eligible for a grant of up to $5,000 per year for up to four years. This means you can explore the campus and get a better sense of what it’s like to be a student at JWU while also saving money that can go towards tuition costs. Plus, discover what other scholarships you could be eligible for!

family touring JWU Charlotte Campus

9. Relieve Stress

The question “What comes after I graduate from high school?” can cause anxiety. When you hear from colleges earlier, it can relieve a great deal of stress during senior year – a year that should be spent making memories and having fun. By applying early, you can ensure you’re not spending the entire school year worrying about college acceptance letters.

Ready to start your application? It takes less than 30 minutes. Don’t forget to select the “Early Action” option on your application. Here’s what you might need to gather before you get started:

Required:

High school transcript (we’ll accept an unofficial transcript for now, but you’ll need to submit the official version when you get your high school diploma)

Optional: