Is applying early decision affecting regular decision applications?

I'm applying to a school through early decision, but I also want to apply to other colleges using regular decision. Is there an issue with doing both, or are there restrictions I should be aware of?

Applying Early Decision (ED) to a college is indeed a binding commitment. If you're admitted via ED, you are expected to attend that institution and withdraw any applications you’ve submitted to other schools. The exception is if the financial aid package offered is inadequate, and you've made a good faith effort to negotiate with the college. In such cases, your Early Decision pledge can be broken.

On the other hand, applying to other colleges Regular Decision (RD) is permitted while your ED application is under review. However, you must be ready to withdraw those RD applications if you're accepted ED. It's widely accepted that you can apply to as many colleges as you wish via RD while your early application is being considered.

Remember, integrity is key in the application process. So if you commit to a college via ED, it's essential to hold true to that commitment. Colleges also communicate with each other, so if you break the ED agreement without a valid reason, it could have consequences on your RD applications.

In summary, you are allowed to apply to both ED at one school and RD at other schools simultaneously. Just always be prepared to honor the ED commitment should you be accepted. Hope this helps!