§ 01
Overview
Applying to college can be a complex and overwhelming process, especially when trying to navigate the different types of application plans available. This document aims to clarify the differences between the most common application plans, such as Early Decision (ED1 and ED2), Early Action (EA), Restrictive Early Action (REA), Rolling Admissions, and Regular Decision (RD). By providing a detailed comparison of these plans and examples of schools that utilize them, we hope to assist students and their families in making informed decisions about their college applications.
§ 01
College Application Plans & Timelines
§ 02
College Application Plans & Timelines
§ 03
College Application Plans & Timelines
Applying to college can be a complex and overwhelming process, especially when trying to navigate the different types of application plans available. This document aims to clarify the differences between the most common application plans, such as Early Decision (ED1 and ED2), Early Action (EA), Restrictive Early Action (REA), Rolling Admissions, and Regular Decision (RD). By providing a detailed comparison of these plans and examples of schools that utilize them, we hope to assist students and their families in making informed decisions about their college applications.
§ 04
Application Plans Overview
| Application Plan | Description | Binding? | Deadline | Notification Date | Commitment Date | Examples of Schools |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Decision (ED1) | Students apply early and receive an early decision. Must attend if accepted. | Yes | Typically Nov 1 | Mid- December | Upon acceptance | University of Pennsylvania, Duke University, Brown University |
| Early Decision II (ED2) | Similar to ED1 but with a later deadline. Must attend if accepted. | Yes | Typically Jan 1 | Mid- February | Upon acceptance | New York University, Vanderbilt University, Emory University |
| Early Action (EA) | Students apply early and receive an early decision. Non-binding. | No | Typically Mid- October or Nov 1 | Mid- December | May 1 | University of Michigan, MIT, University of Chicago |
| Restrictive Early Action (REA) | Similar to EA but restricts applications to other private-early plans. Non-binding | No | Typically Nov 1 | Mid- December | May 1 | Stanford University, Harvard University, Yale University |
| Rolling Admissions | Applications are reviewed as they are received and decisions are made throughout the admission cycle. | No | Varies | Varies | May 1 | Penn State University, University of Pittsburgh, Indiana University |
| Regular Decision (RD) | Normal plan with a normal deadline; non-binding (i.e. if you are admitted, you do not have to attend) | No | Typically first week of January | March-April | May 1 | Nearly all universities |
§ 05
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What is the main difference between Early Decision and Early Action?
Early Decision (ED) is a binding agreement, meaning if you are accepted, you must attend that school and withdraw all other college applications. It demonstrates a high level of commitment and interest to the institution. Early Action (EA), on the other hand, is non-binding, allowing you to apply to other schools and compare financial aid offers before making a final decision by May 1.
2. Can I apply to both Early Decision and Early Action plans?
Yes, you can apply to both Early Decision and Early Action plans at different schools. However, if accepted under Early Decision, you must withdraw all other applications, including those to Early Action schools. This requires careful planning and consideration of your top choice.
3. What happens if I get rejected or deferred from an Early Decision application?
If you are rejected from an Early Decision application, you cannot reapply to that school during the same admissions cycle. You can, however, apply to other schools under Regular Decision. If you are deferred, your application is reconsidered during the Regular Decision round, giving you another chance to be admitted without the binding commitment.
4. Are there any disadvantages to applying Early Decision?
The main disadvantage of applying Early Decision is the binding commitment, which limits your ability to compare financial aid offers from multiple schools. This can be significant if you require financial aid and want to ensure you get the best possible package. Additionally, applying ED can increase pressure to finalize your college choice early in the senior year.
5. Can I switch my application plan from Regular Decision to Early Decision or Early Action?
Typically, no. Most schools have strict deadlines and policies that do not allow changes to your application plan after submission. However, itâs always best to check with individual schools as some may have specific policies or exceptions.
6. What does ârestrictiveâ mean in Restrictive Early Action?
Restrictive Early Action (REA) means you cannot apply to other private collegesâ Early Action or Early Decision plans, though you can still apply to public universitiesâ Early Action plans and Regular Decision plans at private institutions. This restriction aims to limit the number of applications an applicant can submit early, encouraging commitment to the REA school.
7. Is there an advantage to applying through Rolling Admissions?
Yes, applying early in a Rolling Admissions process can increase your chances of acceptance as schools fill their spots on a first-come, first-served basis. Early applicants often face less competition and may receive their decision more quickly, allowing for more time to make final plans. Moreover, if you make your safety school one that uses ârollingâ admissions, then that frees up slots on the CommonApp for you to apply to more target and reach schools.
8. How many schools can I apply to through Early Action?
You can apply to multiple schools through Early Action unless one of the schools has a Restrictive Early Action policy, which limits you to applying Early Action to only public institutions and Regular Decision to private schools. It's important to check each school's policies.
9. Can I apply to Regular Decision schools if Iâve applied Early Decision?
Yes, you can apply to Regular Decision schools while waiting for your Early Decision results. However, if you are accepted under Early Decision, you must withdraw all other applications immediately, which can be a disadvantage if you are seeking to compare financial aid packages.
10. What should I do if I need financial aid but want to apply Early Decision?
If you need financial aid and are considering Early Decision, research the financial aid policies of ED schools thoroughly. Use the net price calculators available on their websites to estimate your aid package. Remember, the binding nature of ED means you will not be able to compare offers from multiple schools, so ensure you are comfortable with the potential financial commitment.
11. Are decisions from Early Action schools received earlier than Regular Decision schools?
Yes, Early Action decisions are typically released in mid-December, several months earlier than Regular Decision decisions, which are usually released in late March to early April. This early notification allows you more time to plan and make informed decisions about your college future.
12. Can I be accepted to multiple schools under Rolling Admissions?
Yes, you can receive multiple acceptances through Rolling Admissions. This allows you to choose the school that best fits your needs and circumstances. Keep in mind that you should notify schools of your decision to attend or decline their offer by May 1, the common decision date.
13. Do all schools offer Early Decision II?
No, Early Decision II is less common than Early Decision I. Schools that do offer ED II provide another opportunity for students to demonstrate their strong interest and commitment later in the admissions cycle, typically with a January deadline. Check each schoolâs application options to see if they offer ED II.
14. How does the commitment date differ among these plans?
For Early Decision (ED1 and ED2), the commitment is immediate upon acceptance, requiring you to withdraw all other applications. For Early Action (EA), Rolling Admissions, and Regular Decision (RD), the commitment date is typically May 1, allowing you to consider all your options and financial aid packages before making a final decision.
15. What if I am waitlisted in the Regular Decision round?
If waitlisted, you can choose to remain on the waitlist and will be notified if a spot opens up, typically after the May 1 commitment date. Itâs important to accept an offer from another school by May 1 to ensure you have a place to attend, but remain hopeful and responsive to communications from the waitlisted school.