How does Notre Dame's Restrictive Early Action work?

I recently heard about Notre Dame's restrictive early action admission plan and was wondering how exactly it works. Can I apply to other colleges under early action while applying to Notre Dame under restrictive early action? What does 'restrictive' mean in this context?

Notre Dame’s Restrictive Early Action (REA) is a non-binding early application program. This means that, if admitted, you're not obligated to attend and have until May1st to make your decision. "Restrictive" refers to certain limitations placed on where else you can apply early.

Specifically, if you apply to Notre Dame REA, you cannot apply to any other early decision (ED) programs or any private schools' early action (EA) programs. However, you're allowed to apply to other schools through their standard decision or rolling admission processes.

Interestingly, you are allowed to apply to public universities on their non-binding early action terms, even if you apply to Notre Dame REA. Additionally, you can apply early to any college or university with early deadlines for scholarships or special academic programs.

The purpose of REA is to allow students to show their dedicated interest in Notre Dame while also preventing them from being locked into a binding commitment, like Early Decision would. It also gives students the opportunity to hear back from Notre Dame earlier than regular decision applicants.However, each student's circumstances are unique, so it's important to consider your personal preferences, financial situation, and overall college list when deciding whether to apply REA or Regular Decision to Notre Dame.