Apply Early, Know Early

This year, a record-low 25% of Trinity University applicants were accepted into the Class of 2029. Despite the competitive landscape, one group of applicants fared much better. Those who applied through the Early Decision process saw their chances of getting in jump to 53%.

These Early Decision students, who comprise about a third of their class, picked Trinity as their first-choice college. This represented another ED enrollment record for Trinity as the University's national recognition continues to grow. Early Decision applicants distinguish themselves from students in other decision plans, stand out among a smaller applicant pool, and receive financial information earlier to assess affordability.

Hear from two students from the Class of 2029 on why they confidently applied to Trinity through Early Decision.

Sarah Chang ’29

Sarah Chang ’29 was drawn to Trinity for its vast research opportunities. “I applied Early Decision because I knew Trinity was the right place for me. I knew it when I started comparing other colleges to Trinity, specifically its amazing faculty, its awesome undergraduate lab research, and its campus,” Sarah says. “I love how Trinity provides a space for curiosity and rigor, working alongside incredible faculty and students.”

Sarah received one of Trinity’s full-tuition Semmes Scholarships to study neuroscience. She’s interested in researching the effects of brain injury (whether from trauma or harm by substance), specifically in veterans and the incarcerated. Her neuroscience studies are driven by the hope to create a better and more compassionate world, specifically for those society casts out.

“Receiving the Semmes Scholarship was honestly such a big surprise, and words could never express how grateful I am,” she says. “I hope I can use this opportunity to explore all the different neuroscience labs Trinity has to offer.”

While excited by Trinity’s research resources, Sarah ultimately knew that Trinity was the right place for her because it allows her to pursue both science and music.

Sarah plays piano and oboe, and she says, “Quitting music was never an option in my head, so I cannot wait to continue my studies at Trinity. I look forward to being a part of the ensembles, improving my technique, and collaborating with other musicians!”

Sarah can’t wait to get involved in some of Trinity’s nearly 150 student organizations, such as Outdoor Recreation and the Trinity Community Garden. She’s excited to spend a semester abroad or a summer doing research.

Asher Levy ’29

Approximately two-thirds of Trinity’s 163 recruited student-athletes in the Class of 2029 applied through Early Decision, and baseball star Asher Levy ’29 is one of these students!

“I made the choice to apply Early Decision after my visit to the campus,” Asher says. “After talking to Pitching Coach Dave Smith, seeing the amazing facilities, and meeting many nice people and professors, I knew it was the place I wanted to be.”

Asher started playing baseball when he was 6 years old, when his father introduced him to the sport. “From a young age, I always knew I wanted to play in college,” he says. “I love baseball because it’s a team sport where I get to spend time with the people I love.”

At Trinity, Asher can compete in varsity athletics and also continue to pursue his other life passion: community service. “Throughout high school, community service was a big part of my life,” he says. “I was involved in Strikeout Leukemia, where we raised money for young kids with leukemia by selling tickets to a baseball game that we played in.” With clubs like the Trinity University Volunteer Action Community, Asher can now serve his new community in San Antonio.

Asher plans to study business in Trinity’s AACSB-accredited and nationally ranked Michael Neidorff School of Business. He’s looking forward to interning with local businesses and participating in business-related research.

Why Apply Early?

For students who know where they belong, Trinity’s early application plans open doors sooner. Whether through Early Decision I or II (binding) or Early Action (non-binding), applicants are part of a smaller pool and often discover their acceptance letter waiting before the holiday season. That early “yes” isn’t just an admission—it’s an invitation to breathe deeply, dream boldly, and step confidently into what’s next.

“Early Decision applicants often tell us that Trinity rose to the top after they visited the Trinity campus and realized this was the right fit,” says Justin Doty, dean of Admissions. “When Trinity fits academically, socially, and financially, applying early places students in the most competitive position possible for admission.” This past year, with Trinity’s record-low acceptance rate of 25%, that early commitment proved to be a smart strategy.

Support That Starts Early

Of course, every student asks the big question before saying yes: Can I afford it? Trinity has an answer. Families considering Early Decision can request an early financial aid offer, giving them peace of mind about affordability before applying. Approximately 85% of ED students in the Class of 2029 received an early financial aid offer, nearly a 30% increase from last year’s Class of 2028, which helped them commit to Trinity as their top choice.

Students Who Are “All In”

This year’s ED admits posted an average 3.65 GPA, with even stronger SAT/ACT scores and top 10% class ranks compared to the prior year. “These are students who are all in,” Doty says. “They’ve chosen Trinity not just for what it is, but for what it empowers them to become.”

And that’s the heart of it. Applying early isn’t just a head start on paperwork; it’s an early beginning to belonging. For students ready to dive into a vibrant, supportive, and purposeful community, there’s no need to wait. Trinity is rising, and so are its Tigers.

Ready to know early, too? Applications for Early Decision I and Early Action are due November 1.

For more information about scholarships and need-based aid, visit Trinity’s financial aid website. To request an early financial aid estimate, click the button on our ED website.