Showcase

Montclair State University – Early Bird Application

Briella Donahue and Catalina Menez Lopez

April 29, 2025

montclair.edu

The Early Bird Application for Montclair State University officially opened on April 15th; it is the first of its kind in New Jersey. Through this program, juniors in high school can apply and get a head start on their college applications. There is no application fee, and it is non-binding – meaning that it is a great opportunity for juniors considering colleges.

This opportunity will also make it easier and faster for scholarships to be offered to students if they qualify. Students may receive merit scholarships, and if a student needs a financial-aid package, they must fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. If eligible, students will receive scholarship and aid offers in July.

The deadline to apply to the early bird program is June 15th. Results will be released a month later, on July 15th.

There are majors listed for both the Montclair State University Campus and the Bloomfield Campus; each campus offers different majors, although, not all majors are listed. Most majors are eligible, but some are not: such as nursing. Montclair states on its website that the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program requires review of not just underclassmen years and junior year, but senior year as well, making the major incompatible with the early bird application.

Some majors also require a few more steps, such as making an audition, interview, portfolio review, or additional material, such as Art Design, Dance, and Musical Theater. Specialized Programs, like the 7- year combined BS/ PharmD and 8- year combined BS/ MD, also require additional review.

Ultimately, this is a way to get a closer look into the process of applying to colleges as a junior in high school. It is difficult to decide which college to attend, but Montclair State University (MSU) makes this an easier process, which may provide some relief to students and give them more insight into how they can improve their applications come senior year.

This opportunity is one step out of the many towards the future. As Audrey Hepburn once said, “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” So, plant that garden today by applying to MSU, and see what the future may hold!

About the Contributors

Briella Donahue, Journalist

Briella Donahue is a junior at Emerson Junior Senior High School and a journalist for The Cavo Chronicles. Donahue has been reporting for the school’s online newspaper since freshman year. She is curious about the world and enjoys spreading awareness on these topics through reporting. Donahue is also a member of multiple clubs, including Spanish Club, Cavo Cancer Crushers, and Journalism Club. Outside of school, Donahue enjoys poetry, baking, and music.

Catalina Menez Lopez, Journalist

Catalina Menez Lopez is a Junior at Emerson Jr. Sr. High School. Lopez is involved in multiple clubs, such as Journalism, Spanish, and the Cavo Cancer Crushers Club. She enjoys learning new cooking recipes and going out with her friends in her free time. She also loves the beach, looking at sunsets, and going to church. She is looking forward to further developing her writing skills through taking Journalism 1 Honors this year, as well as through her participation in the club.