What is Early Decision?
Early Decision (ED) is a binding college admissions process that provides an early acceptance decision, usually by mid-December. If accepted, you are required to enroll and withdraw all other college applications.
Is Early Decision Binding?
Yes. ED is a binding commitment. If you’re accepted, you must:
- Enroll at that college
- Withdraw all other applications
This makes it essential to consider the decision carefully before applying.
How Is Early Decision Different from Early Action?
What’s the difference between Early Decision and Early Action?
While both allow students to apply early and receive a decision in the fall, the key difference is binding vs. non-binding.
| Decision Type | Binding? | Deadline | Decision Released | Can Apply to Other Schools? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Decision (ED) | ✅ Yes | Typically Nov 1 | Mid-December | No — must withdraw others if admitted |
| Early Action (EA) | ❌ No | Typically Nov 1 | Mid-December | Yes — can apply to other schools |
Key Points:
- ED is binding: You’re committing to attend if admitted.
- EA is non-binding: You can apply early to multiple schools and still compare offers.
- Some top schools offer Restrictive or Single-Choice Early Action, which limits where else you can apply early but is still not binding.
Tip: If you’re unsure about committing or need to compare financial aid offers, Early Action is a safer choice. Here’s an in-depth discussion about the differences between Early Action and Early Decision.
What Should I Consider Before Applying ED?
1. Financial Aid Considerations
Can you compare financial aid offers if you apply ED?
No. Since ED is binding, you won’t be able to compare offers from multiple schools.
Tip: Use the college’s Net Price Calculator ahead of time to estimate affordability.
2. Test Score Timing
Should I apply ED if I want to improve my SAT or ACT scores?
Probably not. If you expect a significant score boost with more prep time, it may be smarter to wait for Regular Decision.
If you’re set on ED, work with test prep experts early to submit your strongest scores.
Why Apply for Early Decision?
What are the advantages of applying ED?
Applying ED can give you a strategic edge in several ways:
Higher Acceptance Rates
Some selective colleges fill up to 50% of their class through ED. Because ED applicants commit to enrolling, colleges may be slightly more flexible on academic stats.
Less Senior Year Stress
Receiving a decision in December lets you relax and focus on your senior year without the uncertainty of multiple pending applications.
Second Chance at Admission
What happens if I’m deferred?
If deferred in ED, many colleges re-review your application in the Regular Decision round. You’ll have time to:
- Improve grades
- Retake tests
- Add new recommendation letters
Reassess Your College List
What if I’m denied?
A denial can help you reassess your list and target schools that are a better fit, while there’s still time to apply. Here’s a more detailed answer to the question: What happens if you’re rejected Early Decision?
Why You Might NOT Apply Early Decision
When is ED not a good fit?
Consider waiting for Regular Decision if:
- Your junior year grades need improvement
First-semester senior grades could help show academic growth. - You’re planning to retake standardized tests
More time = more chances to improve. - You’re not 100% sure about one school
ED is a binding commitment, so only apply if you’re completely confident. - Financial aid flexibility matters
Applying Regular Decision allows you to compare financial offers. - You want more time to strengthen your application
Better essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars can take time.
Final Thoughts
Is Early Decision worth it?
ED can boost your odds—but only if:
- You’re confident in your top-choice school
- Your academic profile is already strong
- You’re comfortable with the financial commitment
At Solomon Admissions Consulting, we help students evaluate their options and decide whether Early Decision is the best strategic move. Contact us to get personalized guidance.
Sources:
- StudentAid.gov: What is ED?
- BigFuture.CollegeBoard.org: EA & ED Calendar
- SolomonAdmissions Blog:
Former Senior Admissions Counselor at University of Chicago
2 years in University of Chicago Admissions
4,000+ Applications Read and Evaluated
After graduating from the University of Chicago with a major in Geographical Studies and a minor in Art History, Maura joined the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at UChicago. In her two years there, she recruited students from across the country, evaluated more than 4,000 UChicago applications, offered information sessions on applying to highly selective universities, led educational essay writing workshops, and advocated for students in the admissions committee.
