Early Decision vs. Early Action

As one applies to college, something that may come up is Early Decision and Early Action. Be sure to know the deadlines and how each college defines these terms. Typically they are defined as follows:

Early Decision:
* Your absolutely agree to attend that college if accepted
* You may only apply to one college in the method of Early Decision
* You apply in October or November and receive an answer in December
* You may apply to other colleges under the regular process
* If accepted, you must withdraw all other applications from other schools
* You will typically be required to give a nonrefundable deposit by May

Early Action:
* Similar to Early Decision, however, not binding
* Apply in October or November and receive an answer by December
* If accepted, you may commit then or in the Spring
* May apply to other colleges under Early Action as well
* May apply to other colleges under regular admissions process.

NICCP