Chances Between Early Action and Regular Decision?

How do chances differ between applying Early Action and Regular Decision? I'm trying to figure out which option might be better for me in terms of admissions likelihood, and I'd appreciate any insights based on experience or knowledge.

Applying Early Action (EA) or Early Decision (ED) does generally increase your chances of admission at many schools. The major difference here is that ED is binding -- if you are accepted, you're committed to attending that school, whereas EA is not binding and you still have until May 1st to decide.

When you apply early (either EA or ED), you're showing a school that you have a high degree of interest in attending. This can be particularly useful at colleges where 'demonstrated interest' is considered in the admissions process, because it gives you a small but potentially meaningful advantage.

How meaningful this boost is can vary considerably from school to school. On average, the data suggests that applying ED results in an approximate 1.6x or a 60% increase in your chances of admission to highly selective schools. So, for instance, if your odds were 4% prior to choosing to apply early, that would bump your chances up to around 6.4%. This increase is pretty substantial.

Applying EA also gives you a boost, but it's typically smaller than the ED advantage because EA does not have the same yield benefits for the college (you're not obligated to attend, so the college doesn't get to secure you as part of their incoming class as soon as they accept you).

However, please note that these are broadly applicable statistics and the impact can vary greatly from school to school. It's also important to consider other factors – for example, you should only apply ED if you are absolutely certain that the school is your first choice and you are able to make a binding commitment to attend. In the case of EA, you just have to be ready with your application materials in the early fall.

Avoid rushing your application just to apply early, as a well-prepared application will always be more competitive than a hurried one, regardless of when you submit it.