What is Early Decision (ED)?
- Should be reserved for your top choice, your dream school. If you're crazy about a certain university, applying ED can be one way of showing your interest and passion.
- Is a binding decision plan, meaning you agree that you will attend the university if admitted. While you can still apply to other schools, you can only apply to one school ED.
- Early decision also implies that you will be committing to the cost of the university
- Has an earlier submission date – Most Universities set this deadline by November 1st, and will send decisions around mid-Decembe
- Withdraw all other applications if accepted by ED
What is Early Action (EA)?
- Apply early and receive an admission decision early in the admission cycle (usually in January or February).
- Consider acceptance offer; do not have to commit upon receipt.
- Apply to other colleges under regular admission plans.
- Give the college a decision no later than the May 1 national response date.
Should I apply early?
Applying to ED or EA is appropriate for a student who:
- Has researched colleges extensively.
- Is absolutely sure that the college is the first choice.
- Has found a college that is a strong match academically, socially and geographically.
- Meets or exceeds the admission profile for the college for SAT® scores, GPA and class rank.
- Has an academic record that has been consistently solid over time.
- Has not thoroughly researched colleges.
- Is applying early just to avoid stress and paperwork.
- Is not fully committed to attending the college.
- Is applying early only because friends are.
- Needs a strong senior fall semester to bring grades up.
What is Regular Decision (RD)?
- Is a nonbinding decision plan, and you can apply to other schools, regardless of the decision plan.
- Has a later application date - Most universities will have this Jan. 1, and you will learn your decision no later than April 1.