Is Yale early decision binding?

Hi everyone, I'm a junior currently considering applying to Yale. I wanted to know if their early decision program is binding or not - basically, if I get accepted, am I obiligated to attend? Any insights or experiences with this process would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Hi there! I'd be happy to clear that up for you. Yale University actually has a Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA) policy, not Early Decision. The distinction is really important because SCEA is not binding—unlike Early Decision programs, where you are committed to attending if accepted. With SCEA, you can still apply to other colleges through regular decision and compare offers before making your final choice. Do note that under Yale’s SCEA, you can't apply to any other private university's early program, but you can apply to public universities or international institutions on any timeline. If you get accepted to Yale SCEA, you get the chance to celebrate your admission early without the pressure of the binding commitment. Just remember that you have until the regular decision deadline to make your choice! Best of luck with your application!