From early action to rolling admission, there are a variety of admission types and each option offers its own set of advantages and considerations. As summer begins and rising seniors finalize their application strategy, we’re breaking down the different undergraduate admission deadlines.
Early Decision (ED)
Early Decision is a binding admission plan in which students commit to attending the college if accepted. Typically, Early Decision applications are due in November, and students receive their admissions decisions in December. By applying Early Decision, students demonstrate their strong interest in a particular institution and, if accepted, are obligated to withdraw their applications from other colleges. While Early Decision can improve your chances of admission to a preferred school, it's crucial to consider whether you're ready to make a binding commitment before applying ED.
Tip: By applying ED, you lose any leverage you may have had to appeal for more merit scholarships in the spring. If you’re a full pay family looking for merit aid, ED may not be the best choice.
Early Action (EA)
Early action is a non-binding admission plan that allows students to apply to colleges early in the admissions cycle, typically in November or December of their senior year. Unlike early decision (ED), which is binding, students who apply EA receive an admissions decision earlier but are not obligated to enroll if accepted. This option gives students the advantage of knowing their admission status sooner and potentially easing some of the stress associated with the college application process.
Tip: Many colleges require students to apply EA to be considered for their largest scholarships.
Restrictive Early Action (REA)
Restrictive Early Action, also known as Single-Choice Early Action, is a non-binding early application option that a handful of colleges, including Yale and Stanford, employ. It typically restricts students from applying to other colleges EA or RD. While exact terms can vary from college to college, students can usually still apply to EA to public universities, international institutions, and sometimes private colleges if there are scholarship opportunities attached.
Tip: While REA allows students to demonstrate their interest in a particular institution without the binding commitment of ED, it forces students to give up the higher chance of admission that comes with ED. REA often does not come with the same noticeably higher acceptance rate as ED.
Regular Decision (RD)
Regular decision is the “standard” admission deadline, with applications typically due in January or February of a student’s senior year. Unlike ED, RD is not binding, and students receive their admissions decisions in the spring, by April at the latest. This option allows students more time to finalize their college lists, gather additional materials, and carefully consider their options before making a decision. While RD offers flexibility, it also means waiting longer for admission decisions compared to EA or ED.
Tip: If you had a rough time academically earlier in your high school career or just started taking rigorous classes your senior year, RD may be the right fit for you.
Rolling Admission
Many colleges don’t offer ED, EA, or RD options and instead have rolling admissions. That is an ongoing admission process in which applications are reviewed as they are received, and admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis. Colleges with rolling admission typically do not have a set application deadline; instead, they accept and evaluate applications until all spots are filled. This option provides students with the opportunity to receive prompt decisions, often within a few weeks of submitting their applications.
Tip: It’s often essential to apply early in the rolling admission cycle to maximize your chances, as the longer the admissions season goes, fewer spots are available, which can make it more competitive for applicants.
In the end, each option offers its own set of benefits and considerations. By carefully considering your priorities and preferences, you can select the admission deadline that best aligns with your goals and maximizes your chances of success.