Early Action vs. Early Decision: Which Is Better?

The college decision-making process can feel complicated and overwhelming. With what seems like an innumerable number of colleges to choose from, many ambitious high school seniors look for options to get an early start on their journey.

The two main options for high school seniors in the college application stage are Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED). While the terms sound relatively similar, understanding the difference between the two processes is crucial to ensuring students set themselves up for success as they begin their college careers.

What is Early Action?

The main difference between Early Action and Early Decision is that Early Action is “non-binding.” Non-binding means that if a student applies to a school offering EA and is accepted, there is no contractual obligation to enroll. EA allows students the security of acceptance into their college of choice early on while also providing time to feel assured in their decision before the enrollment deadline. Students have the chance to apply to multiple schools as they assess which academic path best fits their goals.

Typically, Early Action decisions are sent out in the winter months of the academic year. Therefore, students on the EA track must respond to the offer and enroll by the college’s enrollment date. Having this extended decision-making time is crucial for those considering scholarships, financial aid packages, and travel requirements in their college decision.

Examples of colleges that offer Early Action include Regent University, Harvard University, Georgetown University, the University of Michigan, Old Dominion University, and the University of Virginia.

What is Early Decision?

Early Decision is “binding.” Binding means that if students receive an acceptance of admission to the participating college, they must commit to enrolling. Colleges that offer ED tend to be highly competitive. ED limits students to applying to one school at a time. Often, during the ED process, a college will require the student to withdraw other ED applications and prohibit applying to other colleges offering ED. However, some colleges may allow students to apply to other schools with non-binding applications.

There are two ways to be released from the binding agreement of Early Decision. One is if the financial aid package offered does not meet the student’s needs, preventing them from attending. The second is if they are rejected. If rejected, the school may defer the application to the regular admission pool, though often the rejection is final with ED paths.

Some colleges that offer Early Decision include Dartmouth College, Duke University, Cornell University, New York University, and the College of William & Mary.

What are the Benefits of Applying Early?

Despite the differences between Early Action and Early Decision, both offer the benefit of applying early in the academic year. Some colleges, like Regent University, provide special benefits to incentivize their Early Action program. These benefits may include expedited admissions decisions, vouchers for books and supplies, discounted registration fees for campus events, promotional products, and priority housing selections.

Beyond these incentives, students can experience peace of mind in their senior year, knowing their future is a little less uncertain. The year before starting college can be memorable, so alleviating the stress of college applications and decisions early on comes with significant emotional rewards and a sense of security.

So, Which is Better?

Which admissions path is the best fit for your goals—Early Action or Early Decision? Consider the following questions to decide which may be best for you:

• What is the admission rate of the school to which I am applying? Highly competitive schools tend to use Early Decision to help alleviate the competitiveness of their acceptance rates. Early Decision applicants are often accepted at a higher rate than regular applicants, increasing your odds at sought-after schools.
• How much time do I have to explore my options? If you are eager and already looking at colleges in the summer before your senior year, Early Action might be a great option. Early Decision also indicates a sense of proactiveness. However, Early Decision is binding and can limit your exploration of other options.
• Do I have a top-choice college? If you have been dreaming of and working hard toward attending one specific college, Early Decision is a strong way to express your commitment to that school.
• How much financial aid do I need, and how much does the college offer? Many colleges disclose a rough estimate of how many students receive financial aid (e.g., 85% of Regent students receive financial aid). Use this information, along with assessing your personal need, in your decision. Often, Early Decision tracks do not allow students to compare financial aid offers.
• How competitive of an applicant am I? Are you at the top of your class and have an impressive resume? You may be a strong candidate for either path. If you have a specific college in mind, Early Decision is an option. If you feel confident you may be accepted into multiple colleges, exploring an Early Action path would be ideal so you can take time to assess your options.

Learn more about Regent University’s Early Action program.