Early Action, Early Decision, Restrictive Early Action - What Does it All Mean?

The pressure on students intensifies in October due to Early Action and Early Decision application deadlines, which often fall on or around November 1. Not all students need to worry about these deadlines, but if your student is trying to navigate them, read on.

Clearing Up the Lingo

All colleges and universities clearly list their application deadlines on their websites, typically in the Admissions section. Let's break down the different types of deadlines:

Regular Decision (RD)

• The deadline by which applications for the next year must be received

• Some schools only have one deadline, and this is it

• Deadlines range widely, from October to early summer, with most falling between November and January

Early Action (EA)

• Allows students to apply early without committing to attend (non-binding)

• Deadlines typically fall in the fall, often in November

• Students receive decisions earlier, usually in December

• May make students eligible for certain merit aid awards or scholarships

• Students can apply to multiple EA schools

• Not all schools offer EA, and it's optional where available

Early Decision (ED)

• Very different from EA, despite similar naming

• Often offered by highly selective colleges

• Students can apply ED to only one college

• Requires a signed contract from students and parents

• If accepted, students must commit to attending and withdraw other applications

• Applications due before financial aid information is available

• Students should consult their high school counselor before applying ED

Other Categories

• Some schools have specific categories, like Restrictive Early Action (REA)

• REA allows application to one school without committing to attend if admitted

• Usually precludes applying EA or ED to other schools

• Families should carefully investigate the details of these programs

Reminders for All Families

1. Students should review and manage their own deadlines:
   Prioritize Early Action (and Early Decision, if applicable) applications
   Spread out the work strategically

2. Reduce stress by double-checking requirements and deadlines:
   Many deadlines are in January
   Not all colleges require multiple essays

3. Create and follow a plan:
   Plan the work
   Work the plan

Remember, most students apply through Regular Decision and Early Action processes. By understanding these options and planning accordingly, students can navigate the application process more effectively and with less stress.