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USC Marshall Early Decision (ED) is binding: if you’re admitted, you’re expected to enroll at Marshall and withdraw other applications. 

 

 

When can you “break” the ED commitment?

 

 

USC doesn’t publish a big public checklist of allowed reasons, but they do say:

 

• Extenuating circumstances may be an exception (otherwise you’re committed once you submit ED).  
• Unexpected financial hardship is the main situation they explicitly point to: if you’re admitted ED but truly can’t afford it, USC says you can discuss your circumstances with USC Admission and Financial Aid.  

 

 

 

What to do if money is the issue (the usual ED “release” path)

 

 

1. Talk to USC Financial Aid about your situation (they have a process for “special circumstances” like changes in finances/living situation).  
2. If it’s still not affordable, contact USC Admission + Financial Aid and request a release from the ED commitment based on the hardship (do this immediately—consider it time-sensitive).  

 

 

 

What 

won’t

 work

 

 

• You generally can’t switch an ED application to EA/RD after submitting, unless there are extenuating circumstances.  
• Simply changing your mind about major isn’t what ED is for—USC warns to apply ED only if you’re fully committed to Marshall’s business/accounting path.