Decoding EA, ED, RD for US Undergrad Application Strategy
As the summer break draws to a close in the next few weeks, students will find themselves going back to school right when the Common App opens on August 1 for students to fill in their applications to US Colleges.
Most students, especially the ones with lesser exposure to the application process will find themselves feeling overwhelmed with college selection and application deadlines, and terms such as Early Action (EA), Early Decision (ED), and Regular Decision (RD) thrown around.
It takes a while to get the hang of these terms, and you are certainly not alone here. Understand that the different application timelines are created to help students strategize their college application process, and they are created to work in the student’s favor.
Get the Basics Right
Making a college shortlist and tracking application deadlines are the two most critical and intensive tasks for any US college applicant. While some may choose to stick to Regular Decision deadlines, others choose to leverage the strategic advantage of Early Action and Early Decision options.
Early Action (EA)
As the term implies, Early Action means that the student has decided to take action and apply to the colleges early, before the Regular Decision Timeline. Students who apply early hear back from universities early, without the obligation to enroll. Students stand a chance to get an early admission by mid-December.
Key Features:
- Non-binding: Unlike Early Decision, you’re not committed to attending if accepted.
- Early Timelines: Submit applications around November 1st and receive decisions by mid-December.
- Flexibility: Apply to multiple schools without any commitment.
- Stand out: Show your enthusiasm to colleges and compete in a smaller pool of applicants.
Pros:
- Students can gain admission to their desired college early, therefore having plenty of time to focus on final exams.
- Early Action deadlines also coincide with several scholarship deadlines, so students will be able to apply for scholarships in due time.
- Rejections during the EA timeline help students plan RD applications better.
Cons:
- The EA timeline coincides with mid-term exams and assessments for students enrolled in various boards.
- Students get a shorter window to perfect their applications while juggling multiple responsibilities.
Who should apply during Early Action?
Students who have consistently worked on their academics and extracurriculars will find themselves more prepared to apply early.
Early Decision (ED)
Early Decision is a binding agreement. This means that students have devices that if they get accepted by, for example, Cornell University, in the ED round, they will be legally bound to go to just Cornell and no other university. For this reason, chances of acceptance are higher in ED.
Key Features:
- Binding Agreement: You must enroll if accepted and withdraw all other applications.
- Demonstrated Interest: It shows the college you’re committed to going there.
- Deadlines: Typically around November 1st, similar to EA.
Pros
- ED has a higher acceptance rate due to the demonstrated commitment.
- Students get their results by mid-December, leaving them with plenty of time to focus on their finals.
Cons:
- ED is not the most attractive option for students who require financial aid because if their ED choice does not offer the desired amount of aid, they will still have to go there.
- Several students prefer to know their options more closely before committing and ED takes away the chance to do so by limiting flexibility.
Who should apply during the Early Decision?
Students who spend their days dreaming about their favorite college and have also worked hard to meet its requirements must apply early decision. It is an excellent chance for high-achieving students to bag a seat in their dream university. It’s a huge commitment so students must be fully informed of their choice.
Regular Decision (RD)
Regular Decision is, well, the regular way of applying to universities. The application window opens in August and goes in till late January or February. RD application pool is the largest and results are declared in Spring.
Key Features:
- Non-binding: No commitment to enroll if accepted.
- Standard Timelines: More time to prepare your application.
- Deadlines: Usually from mid-December to mid-January.
Pros:
- Students can gather insights from their previous rounds of applications and apply them to RD submissions.
- Students get more time to perfect their application and put their best foot forward.
- Students get a chance to compare scholarship offers and make the right decision.
Cons:
- The wait time is longer compared to other rounds.
- Students may sometimes get waitlisted, which can impact their choices.
Who should apply in Regular Decision?
Everyone. RD is for all students who have not yet committed to any college via ED or EA. ED and EA don’t always work out for everyone. Regular Decision provides the most flexibility and longest preparation time, letting students craft an excellent application.
Bonus: Restricted Early Action (REA)
Restricted Early Action is a lesser-known addition to the list of application options. It is a non-committal and non-binding agreement to only one university. Students can apply in RD to other universities after REA results are declared. REA is offered in only limited and highly selective schools like Princeton University, Harvard University, Yale University, Georgetown University, CalTech, University of Notre Dame, and Stanford.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Thoroughly research each school: Make a comparative list of all colleges on your list and spend some time researching what each of them has to offer. This helps you place the colleges into the three admission categories.
- Check Timelines: The period between November to mid-January will be extremely hectic with multiple application deadlines. Make a note of each deadline and aim to apply 2-3 days in advance to avoid missing out.
- Start Early: You can start filling out your application before Common App opens up by creating an account as early as junior year.
- Talk to Someone: Reach out to school counselors, advisors, parents, and others in your network who have walked down this path before. You are going to need all the support you can get to be able to make the right decision!
To sum it all up…
Navigating the US college admissions process requires careful planning and a clear understanding of your options. Early Action, Early Decision, and Regular Decision each have their advantages and potential drawbacks. By understanding these timelines and how they align with your goals, you can maximize your chances of getting into your dream college.
Remember, preparation and informed decision-making are key to a successful college application process. Whether you’re aiming for top US universities or liberal arts colleges, knowing your application options can make all the difference.
For more insights and tips on the college application process, stay connected to Oneiro Education and stay ahead in your college journey.
