Should I apply early action/decision to my top choice?

I'm a little stressed about the whole college application process, and I'm trying to decide if I should apply early action or early decision to my top choice school. What are the pros and cons of each? Are there any major differences between the two? Thanks for your help!

Hey there! College application season can indeed be stressful, but I'm happy to help clarify the differences between early action and early decision. Early action (EA) is a non-binding process, meaning you can apply to other schools and don't have to commit to attending if you're accepted. This can be great for getting an early response and reducing stress, while still keeping your options open. On the other hand, early decision (ED) is binding, so if you're accepted, you must attend that school and withdraw other applications. This can be beneficial if you're 100% sure that the school is your top choice, as it demonstrates strong interest and may slightly increase your chances of acceptance. However, it's important to be absolutely certain that it's the right fit for you, both academically and financially, before choosing ED. Best of luck with your applications!