College Tip of the Week #4: Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision

Are you confused about the difference between early decision, early action, and regular decision? Then this post is for you! Each of these differ in the time when the applications are due, when the applicant is notified regarding their decision, and whether they are binding or not.

Early action and early decision applications are typically due in November, and you will receive a notification of your decision in December. Early decision is the only one where your application is binding, meaning that if you are notified that you have been accepted to the school, you must withdraw all other applications and agree to enroll in the school. Early action is not binding, so you can wait to see your other options before enrolling in the school that suits you best. It is important to know that you are only allowed to apply to one single choice early action school (otherwise known as restrictive early action) or only one early decision school during your application cycle! However, you can apply to as many early action schools as you like.

Regular decision applications are usually due in January, and you will receive a notification of your decision in March. It is not binding, and you can apply to as many regular decision schools as you desire. Make sure you keep track of the specific dates for each of your applications, notification days, and dates by which you have to accept or decline your admission to a school. These differ based on the schools you are applying for.