Princeton Drops Early-Decision Program

Princeton University became the second elite institution to drop its early-admissions program, following Harvard in a move the Ivy League schools say will benefit disadvantaged students and reduce anxiety.

“We agree that early admission ‘advantages the advantaged,’ ” said Princeton President Shirley M. Tilghman, echoing Harvard’s comments last week.

Princeton had an “earlydecision” program, meaning applicants received word by Dec. 15 of their senior year but had to attend if accepted. Harvard’s early program was nonbinding “early action,” meaning students could weigh offers from other schools the following spring.