Regular vs Early Decision: Which is Better for Me?

I'm debating whether to apply regular or early decision. What are the pros and cons of each, and how should I decide which route to take? Does one significantly increase the chances of acceptance?

The decision between applying Regular Decision or Early Decision is a significant one and depends on several factors.

Pros of Early Decision (ED):

1) Some schools have higher acceptance rates for their ED pool because students are committing to attending if admitted. This demonstrates strong interest in the institution, which colleges appreciate.

2) You could find out your admission decision earlier, often in mid-December instead of late March or early April for Regular Decision.

3) You may have an easier winter break and second semester of your senior year because you know where you're going to college.

Cons of Early Decision:

1) It is binding, meaning if you are accepted, you are obligated to attend unless the financial aid package does not meet your family's needs.

2) It could limit you from comparing financial aid offers from other schools since you commit to attending if accepted.

3) The qualification pool is sometimes more competitive than the Regular Decision pool; you could be competing with other highly committed applicants.

Pros of Regular Decision (RD):

1) You are not locked into any commitments and can choose among colleges that accept you.

2) You have more time to perfect your application, earn high grades first semester senior year, and add more accomplishments.

3) You can compare financial aid and scholarship offers from all accepted schools.

Cons of Regular Decision:

1) The acceptance rate could be lower compared to ED.

2) You won't discover your admission results until the spring.

To decide which route to take, consider if there's a school you deeply desire to attend, distinguish yourself from your peers, and that you would absolutely attend given the chance. If so, and if financial considerations are not a major concern, ED could be a great approach.

Research shows that on average, applying ED has a 1.6x or a 60% increase in your chances of admission at super selective schools compared to Regular Decision. Though it's essential to remember that this is an average and can vary widely by institution. In the end, applying early won't convert a unqualified applicant into a qualified one; the boost is more helpful for students who are already competitive applicants.

If you are unsure about where you want to go, need more time for applications or to demonstrate academic improvement, or if comparing financial aid packages is crucial, Regular Decision could be the better choice.