Should I choose early action or regular decision?

I'm trying to figure out the pros and cons of applying early action vs. regular decision. How do you decide which one is best for your application strategy, and does it make a difference in acceptance chances?

Deciding between Early Action (EA) and Regular Decision (RD) hinges on several factors your current application readiness, your demonstrated interest, and your strategic planning for your college applications.

Firstly, if you already have a strong application - solid grades, test scores (if applicable), and extracurricular activities - and a finished draft of your application essay, then applying to EA could be a good move. Early applications allow admissions officers to assess your credentials without comparing them to the influx of RD applicants.

However, deciding to apply to EA should also encompass your level of interest in the school. Some universities do consider demonstrated interest in their admissions decisions, and applying to EA can be a way to highlight your enthusiasm.

From a strategic standpoint, EA can give you some advantages. You can typically hear back from these schools by mid-December, which can take some stress off your shoulders knowing you've been accepted to a school (or several) before RD notifications in the spring. It can also give you a better sense of your chances at peer institutions and the rest of your list.

In terms of acceptance rates, statistics do suggest that EA provides an advantage. The reported acceptance rates for EA tend to be higher, on average, than RD acceptance rates, mostly attributed to a smaller applicant pool and dedicated interest. For example, applying Early Decision (a binding process somewhat comparable to EA) can result in a 1.6x increase in your chances of admission to highly selective schools, on average. One caveat though, this increase is truly valuable only if you're on the cusp of admission given your academic and extracurricular profile.

On the other hand, applying RD allows you more time to work on your essays and compile a robust application. You might also be able to include additional accomplishments from your senior year.

In the end, choose the option that best aligns with your application readiness and strategy!