Early Action vs. Early Decision: Which Is the Right Choice?

Sep 11, 2023

The beginning of the college application process can be stressful for many high school seniors in their final year. One of the major decisions they face is whether to apply through early action or early decision. According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), colleges and universities that offer early decision options tend to have higher admission rates for early decision applicants than their overall applicant pool. Specifically, the data shows that early-decision applicants have an admission rate of 61%, while the admission rate for all applicants is 49%.

Early action and early decision programs allow students to submit their applications earlier than the regular deadline and typically receive an admission decision sooner. However, there are significant differences between the two programs that students and their families should be aware of before making a decision.

Early Action

Early Action is an admission program that allows students to apply to a college or university early and receive an admission decision before the regular application deadline. Unlike Early Decision, students who apply for early action are not required to attend the institution if accepted. Early action programs are typically non-binding, meaning students can apply to other colleges and universities without committing to the school until the regular admission decision deadline.

Advantages of Early Action

Students can receive an admission decision earlier, which can help ease the anxiety of waiting for college acceptance letters.
Students who apply early action have more time to decide where to attend college.
Demonstrating interest in the institution by applying through early action or early decision can increase the likelihood of admission.

Disadvantages of Early Action

Early action does not guarantee admission; students may still be deferred or denied.
Students who apply for early action may not have the opportunity to compare financial aid packages from different schools, which could impact their final decision.

Tips for Applying

If you are considering early action, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Know the deadline: Know the early action deadline for each school you are considering and submit your application well before the deadline.
Focus on grades and test scores: Since early action is a competitive process, it’s important to maintain good grades and submit strong test scores.
Demonstrate interest: Early action can be an opportunity to show your interest in the school, so consider scheduling a campus visit or attending a virtual event.
Be strategic: Consider applying early action to schools where you have a strong chance of admission and where you would be happy to attend.

Early Decision

Early Decision is a binding admission program where students apply to a college or university early and, if accepted, are required to enroll and withdraw all other college applications. The application deadline is typically earlier than the regular decision deadline, and students receive an admission decision earlier than regular decision applicants.

Advantages of Early Decision

There is a higher acceptance rate in an early decision compared to regular decision applicants.
Students who apply early decision have more time to plan for college and may also receive a financial aid package earlier.

Disadvantages of Early Decision

There is a binding commitment. If students are accepted, they must withdraw all other college applications, making comparing financial aid packages from different schools impossible.
If a student decides not to attend school after being accepted, it can have serious consequences for their future college applications.

Tips for Applying

If you are considering early decision, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Research schools carefully: Since the early decision is binding, it’s important to research schools carefully and select one you want to attend.
Ensure financial prudence: Ensure you understand the financial aid package before applying for an early decision, as it will be binding if accepted.
Plan ahead: Since the deadline is earlier, it’s important to plan and ensure that all application materials are submitted on time.
Consider the impact on future applications: If you apply early decision and are not accepted, it could impact future college applications. Make sure you understand the risks and consequences.

Early Action vs. Early Decision: How to Decide

When deciding whether to apply early action or early decision, there are several factors to consider, including:

Admissions statistics: Look at the acceptance rates for early action and early decision applicants at the schools you’re considering.
Financial aid: Consider how financial aid works for each application type and the implications for you and your family.
Timeline: Consider your timeline and determine if the early application deadlines coincide with your needs to make a timely decision.
School fit: Consider whether the school is a good fit for you academically, socially, and personally.

In addition to the above factors, there are also personal considerations to consider when deciding between early action and early decision. These might include:

Confidence in college choice: If you’re certain that a particular school is the right fit for you, early decision might be a good choice.
Flexibility: If you are still deciding where to attend college, early action might be a better choice as it allows you to keep your options open.
Family support: Consider talking to your family about your decision, as it can also impact their financial circumstances.

Financial considerations are also important when deciding between early action and early decision. Some things to consider include:

Financial aid packages: Understand how financial aid works for early action and early decision applicants and what kind of aid package you might be offered.
Affordability: Consider the total cost of attendance and whether it is affordable for you and your family.
Scholarship opportunities: Look into scholarship opportunities at each school, as they could impact your decision.

Conclusion

The application process for college through early action or early decision can offer various benefits, such as a higher chance of acceptance, advanced notification of admissions decisions, and an opportunity to plan ahead. However, each option has its own advantages and disadvantages that should be carefully considered. It is important to weigh factors such as admissions statistics, financial aid, timeline, school fit, and personal and financial considerations when deciding between early action and early decision. Doing so lets you make an informed decision that is best for your individual needs and goals.