When is the early decision deadline for most colleges?

I'm contemplating applying early decision to a few schools, but I'm a little worried about the timeline. Can someone tell me when the early decision deadlines typically are for most colleges? I'm planning on getting my application materials ready, and I want to ensure I don't miss any crucial dates.

Also, are there any strategic advantages or disadvantages of applying early decision that I should consider before committing to one school?

For many colleges and universities, the Early Decision (ED) deadline typically falls around November 1st, but this is not a universal rule and can vary by school. Some institutions may have an earlier or later ED deadline, so you should make sure to check the specific dates on each college's admissions website.

As for strategic considerations around Early Decision, there are a few factors to consider. One advantage is the potential boost in admissions chances. On average, applying ED could result in an approximate 60% increase in your odds of acceptance at highly selective schools, although effects vary widely by institution.

However, do note that there are also possible disadvantages. ED plans are binding, meaning if you're accepted, you've committed to attend that college, barring any major issues with the financial aid package. This could limit your options if you're still evaluating multiple colleges, and if you haven't received your financial aid package yet, there's a risk the aid may not adequately cover your needs. You can use a college's net price calculator to get a somewhat accurate prediction of what your financial aid package might look like.

Balancing these pros and cons, consider which aspects are most important to you – an increased chance of admission, the freedom to choose amongst multiple acceptances, or a potential financial uncertainty. These thoughts should guide your decision about whether to apply ED.