UNC Early Action vs Early Decision?

I'm planning on applying to UNC and I'm a little confused between their Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED) options. Can someone explain the difference between the two? Thanks in advance!

Sure, I'd be happy to clarify the difference between Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED) for you!

Early Action (EA) is a non-binding application plan, meaning that if you're admitted, you're under no obligation to attend UNC. You can apply to other schools under their EA or Regular Decision (RD) plans as well. You'll have until the national college decision deadline on May 1st to decide if you want to enroll in UNC or another college you've been admitted to. EA at UNC essentially allows you to apply and receive a decision earlier (usually in January) without the binding commitment of ED.

Early Decision (ED), on the other hand, is a binding application plan. If you apply to UNC under ED and are admitted, you must enroll at UNC and withdraw all other college applications. You cannot apply to other colleges under ED plans, and you can apply to other schools under non-binding plans like EA and RD only if you're not admitted via ED or if you're deferred to the RD round. This option is ideal for students who are sure that UNC is their first choice and are willing to commit to attending if admitted. The ED decision notification typically comes in December.

Both EA and ED can increase your chances of admission compared to RD, but the commitment level is greater for ED. Applying ED means you're committing to attending the school if admitted, whereas applying EA allows you more flexibility to explore other options before making a final decision. Consider your level of interest in UNC and your willingness to commit to attending, as well as your financial situation, as ED can make it harder to compare financial aid offers among schools.

In summary, if you're sure that UNC is your top choice and you're ready to commit, apply ED. If you want an earlier decision without the binding commitment, opt for EA. Good luck with your application!