Difference between Early Action and Regular Decision?

Hey guys, I'm a bit confused about the college application process. What exactly is Early Action, and how is it different from applying during Regular Decision? Is there any advantage to applying early? Thanks for any insight!

Hello! Early Action (EA) and Regular Decision (RD) are two different types of college application timelines.

Early Action is an earlier application deadline, usually around November 1st or 15th, where you submit your application ahead of the Regular Decision deadline (typically January 1st). If you apply via Early Action, you typically hear back from the colleges by mid-December. The most significant advantage of Early Action is that it is non-binding, meaning even if you get accepted, you are not obligated to attend that college, and you still have until May 1st to make a final decision.

Regular Decision is the standard application process with a later deadline (usually around January 1st). Applicants typically hear back in late March or early April and have until May 1st to make a final decision on which college to attend.

There are several advantages to applying Early Action. Firstly, you have an earlier notification of your admission status, allowing you to plan and make a decision more comfortably. Additionally, applying EA can slightly boost your chances of admission, as colleges tend to accept a higher percentage of applicants during the Early Action round compared to Regular Decision. This boost, however, is generally not as significant as with Early Decision (a separate, binding early application), and the magnitude varies depending on the school. Finally, applying Early Action can show your genuine interest in a college, which can be beneficial for some colleges that consider demonstrated interest.

In summary, the main differences between Early Action and Regular Decision are the application deadlines and the notification timeline. Applying Early Action could offer some advantages, such as a potentially higher acceptance rate and earlier notification, while still allowing you the flexibility to choose among your acceptances. However, make sure you're ready with a strong application before committing to an early deadline! Good luck with your college applications!