Research ED vs EA

Overview

Understanding Early Decision vs. Early Action helps you make strategic choices about when to apply. Here's a friendly breakdown!

Early Decision (ED)

• Binding — if admitted, you MUST attend
• Deadline: Usually November 1 or 15
• Decision: Mid-December
• Best for: Your absolute first-choice school where cost isn't a major concern

Early Action (EA)

• Non-binding — you can apply to multiple EA schools
• Same timeline as ED
• You have until May 1 to decide
• Best for: Schools you love but want to compare offers

Restrictive Early Action (REA)

• Non-binding, but limits other early applications
• Schools: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, Georgetown, Notre Dame
• You CAN still apply EA to public universities

Strategic Considerations

• Only use ED if you have a clear #1 choice AND can afford it without comparing aid packages
• EA is great for getting early acceptances without commitment
• Regular Decision gives you the most flexibility

UC/CSU Note

UCs and CSUs don't offer early options — everyone applies November 1-30 with decisions in March.