Early Decision is a way to apply to college that gives you a decision by early to mid-December. However, it’s binding, meaning if you’re accepted, you must attend and withdraw all other applications.
What Is Early Decision?
Early Decision is binding, meaning if you’re accepted, you’re committed to attending that college and must withdraw all other applications. This distinguishes it from Early Action, which is non-binding.
Why Apply Early Decision?
Here are some of the benefits of applying Early Decision (ED):
- Higher Acceptance Rates: Some of the most selective colleges admit a significant proportion of their entering class through Early Decision, anywhere from a third to over half! Because colleges can “lock” them into the class, these students often have a slightly lower academic profile than for regular decision, so if you have your heart set on a college and fall within their middle 50% admit profile or better, you may look like a much stronger applicant in this pool.
Tip: Compare middle 50% test scores using College Board’s BigFuture tool - Simplified Senior Year: If you are admitted, you have completed the college application process and can comfortably enjoy the rest of your senior year! (Note: All admissions acceptances are dependent on your continuing to do well academically, so don’t succumb to senioritis too much!) If you are not admitted under Early Decision, you get a second chance in many places by being reviewed under regular decision. This gives you an opportunity to update your application, preferably with stronger grades, test scores, and recommendation letters.
- Helpful Feedback: If you’re not admitted, this can be a sign to evaluate your other college choices while you still have time. While one decision is not necessarily predictive of what will happen elsewhere, it can act as a bellwether for similarly competitive schools where the greater competition under regular decision could mean they are out of reach for you.
Important Considerations before applying ED
It’s essential to keep in mind the following when applying Early Decision:
- Binding Agreement: Remember, ED is binding. If accepted, you must attend.
- Financial Aid: If you rely on financial aid, consider this option carefully. You might not receive an aid package as generous as you would from another college.
- Test Scores: If you think you can improve your test scores, consider delaying your application until you can retake the tests. You should also consider hiring test prep experts like Prep Expert, or using one of the excellent test prep platforms available, such as Khan Academy’s Digital SAT Prep course.
By understanding these aspects, you can make an informed decision about whether Early Decision is right for you.
Applying Early Decision to college can be a strategic and rewarding choice for students who are confident in their top college pick. Not only does ED offer a higher acceptance rate at many selective institutions, but it also provides the peace of mind that comes with securing your college plans early. By committing to your dream school, you can enjoy the rest of your senior year without the stress of multiple applications. Additionally, if you’re not accepted, you often get a second chance under regular decision, allowing you to refine your application and explore other options. However, it’s crucial to carefully consider the binding nature of ED, especially if financial aid is a concern. Overall, Early Decision can be a powerful tool for students who are ready to take the next step in their educational journey with clarity and confidence.
If clarity and confidence are important to you, working with a reputable college admissions consultant can add a great deal of both to the complex college admissions journey. Contact us to speak with an admissions strategist today!
Originally posted in November 2020, updated by an admissions consultant and republished in July 2025
Sources:
Former Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Admissions at Vanderbilt University
Former Senior Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Admissions at Emory University
6 Years in Vanderbilt University Admissions
3 Years in Emory University Admissions
13,000+ Applications Read and Evaluated
Brandi is dedicated to helping young people navigate the ever-changing college admission landscape. She has close to 20 years of expertise in the college admissions profession. Brandi has experience in both application evaluation and decision making, college counseling, financial aid and scholarship advising and selection, and essay review and writing. She spent the majority of her professional career at Emory University and Vanderbilt University, serving as a college counselor at an elite independent JK-12 school, and creating and leading a college counseling office in a large suburban public school.
