Choosing between Early Decision and Regular Decision

I'm having trouble deciding between applying Early Decision or Regular Decision. I know ED can increase my chances, but RD gives more flexibility. How do you weigh these options, especially when considering potential acceptances and deadlines?

Applying Early Decision (ED) versus Regular Decision (RD) often comes down to a balance between an applicant's confidence in their first-choice school and their need for flexibility in the application process.

If you're absolutely certain about your top-choice school and it offers an ED option, applying ED can indeed be beneficial. It not only expresses strong interest in the school, which can be seen positively in the admissions process, but also generally provides a slight boost in acceptance rates. This is partly due to the school's assurance that you will attend if accepted, which is beneficial for their yield rate. On average, applying ED can result in approximately a 60% increase in your chances of admission at highly selective schools.

However, do note that applying ED is a binding agreement. If admitted, you are obliged to enroll unless the financial aid package is insufficient, even if you get accepted into other schools during the RD round. So, if financial aid or having options to choose from are significant considerations for you, RD might be a better fit.

RD, on the other hand, offers far more flexibility. You're not bound to a school if admitted, so you're at liberty to evaluate multiple offers of admission and available financial aid packages. This can be helpful if you're uncertain about your top choice, or if financial considerations hold significant weight in your decision.

Regarding deadlines, it's key to note that almost all ED deadlines fall in November of your senior year, with decision notifications typically in mid-December. RD deadlines are generally a month or two later, with decisions rolling in around late March or early April. This means you may have less time to perfect your application for ED, but you'll find out your decision sooner.

In essence, weighing ED and RD comes down to preference, certainty, and financial considerations. It's a complex decision, so take the time you need to evaluate which option best suits your circumstances.