What are these terms and are they worth it?

College admission can be an overwhelming process, especially when it comes to understanding the various application terms such as “Early Decision” or “Early Action.” These application plans can often leave students and parents puzzled. This article aims to decode these enigmatic terms and help you make an informed decision.

What are Early Decision and Early Action?

Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) are both early college application processes that allow students to apply to their preferred colleges ahead of the regular application period. However, they differ significantly in terms of commitment and flexibility.

Early Decision (ED)

Early Decision is a binding application plan. It’s the equivalent of proposing marriage to your dream college. If the college says ‘yes,’ you are committed to attending and must withdraw all other college applications.

Early Action (EA)

Early Action, on the other hand, is like telling your dream college that you ‘like them a lot.’ It’s non-binding, and you can apply to other colleges as well. You’ll receive an early response, but you’re not obligated to make a decision until the regular decision deadline.

Advantages of Applying Early

Applying early has its perks. Let’s delve into the top three benefits of early applications:

Accelerated Admission Decision

Early application timelines typically have November deadlines, a few months ahead of the regular decision deadlines. As a result, early applicants receive their admission decisions faster, usually by mid-December to February. This can significantly reduce the stress of waiting for months to hear from colleges.

Concluding the Application Process Early

Acceptance to a university through an early application allows you to wrap up the college application process sooner. This can be a significant relief, allowing you to focus on your final semester of high school without the looming stress of pending college decisions.

Increased Admission Chances

Research suggests that early applications might boost your chances of acceptance. This is because colleges value demonstrated interest. Applying early lets the college know that you’re serious about attending, which could tilt the admission scales in your favor, especially for Early Decision.

Early Action Vs. Early Decision

Now that we understand what Early Decision and Early Action entail, let’s break down their key differences:

Early Decision (ED)

• ED is a binding agreement. If accepted, you’re obligated to enroll at the college.
• You can only apply to one college through ED.
• You’ll receive an early admission decision, usually in December.
• If accepted, you must withdraw all other college applications.

Early Action (EA)

• EA is non-binding. You’re not obligated to attend if accepted.
• You can apply to multiple colleges through EA.
• You’ll receive an early admission decision.
• You can compare and consider other college admission offers.

The Caveats of Early Decision

While Early Decision offers the allure of increased admission chances, it’s not without its drawbacks.

Binding Agreement

The binding nature of ED means that you’re committed to attending if accepted. You must withdraw all other applications, which can feel like putting all your eggs in one basket.

Limited Financial Aid Comparisons

ED doesn’t allow you to compare financial aid packages from other schools. You’re essentially locked into the package offered by the ED school, which might not be the most favorable.

High Academic Expectations

ED is most beneficial for students who are confident in their academic competitiveness. Colleges have less incentive to admit students who don’t meet their academic standards, even through ED.

Should You Choose Early Decision or Early Action?

The choice between ED and EA depends on various factors, such as your academic qualifications, financial needs, and certainty about your college choice.

Clear First-Choice College

ED is most beneficial if you’re absolutely sure about your first-choice college. However, if you have multiple top-choice schools, EA or Regular Decision might be better.

Competitive Applicant

ED can boost your chances of acceptance, but that’s only if you’re already a competitive applicant. If your academic profile doesn’t meet the school’s standards, applying through ED might not give you an edge.

Financial Aid Considerations

Financial aid is a significant factor in college decisions. If you need to compare financial aid packages from different colleges, EA or Regular Decision might be more advantageous.

Application Preparation Time

Early applications require you to gather all your application materials sooner. Consider whether you’ll have enough time to prepare a strong application for the early deadlines.

Wrapping Up

Early Decision and Early Action offer unique benefits but also come with significant considerations. Understanding these early application plans can help you make a strategic decision about your college application process. Remember, the goal is not just to get into college but to choose a college that’s the right fit for you academically, socially, geographically, and financially.