Early Action Vs Early Decision Vs Regular Decision: Explained

Applying to US universities and colleges involves choosing among several admission options. Early Action, Early Decision, and Regular Decision are the primary pathways that hundreds of institutions in USA follow to accept applications from international students. But, how to choose the perfect round for admission? What are the pros and cons between Early Action vs Early Decision vs Regular Decision?

Generally, US universities start accepting applications from international students from November, for the following Fall intake. Early rounds are best suited for those seeking scholarships and priority consideration for admissions. Regular application round is more inclined to those who need more to prepare themselves or polish their applications. For example, US universities release their admission decision for Early round applications between mid-December to February. Whereas, decisions for Regular round applicants are released by March-April. More details on Early Action vs Early Decision vs Regular Decision are described below. 

Also Check: Upcoming Application Deadlines in US Universities

Early Action Application Round in USA

Students seeking early acceptance in US universities apply through Early Action. The application deadline for Early Action is typically between Early-November to Mid-November. However, top universities such Harvard College, MIT, Yale etc have common application date with the deadline being November 1, each year. You can expect your decision by mid-December after applying.

Pros

• Non-binding Application: Allowing students to apply early (usually by early or mid-November) and receive an admission decision earlier (typically mid-December to February). 
• More Time to Decide: Students who are accepted by EA plan are not obligated to attend the institution and have until May 1 to decide.
• Less Stress: College acceptance can be stressful. EA reduces stress by providing an early decision without the pressure to commit immediately.
• Less Competition: Students who possess strong academic background with proof of extracurricular involvement can secure direct admissions due to lesser competition.

Cons

• Low Grades or Test Scores: Applicants with low grades or test scores are less likely to secure admissions, as preference is given to applicants with strong academic background.
• Chances of Competition: With low grades, you are likely to face competition from those with good academic performance. This may reduce your chances of admission.

Top Universities for Early Action

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Yale University
• Stanford University
• Harvard University
• Princeton University

Early Decision Application Round in USA

Early Decision applications have similar deadlines like Early Action Application, but have binding conditions. The decisions for the same are issued by mid-December and may vary in some colleges. The main difference lies in offer acceptance, as early decision applicants are bound to attend the institution. Additionally, they must withdraw all the other applications and decline the offers that a candidate may receive.

Pros

• Higher Chances of Acceptance: An applicant has higher chances of acceptance through Early Decision compared to Regular Application. Majority of colleges offering Early Decision admissions have an acceptance rate between 40- 50%. In fact, many Ivy League Institutions accept around 40% applicants out of the total applications.
• Enough Time to Plan: With Early Decision, you have enough time to plan your arrival in USA, arrange funds and accommodation. Read pre-departure checklist for Indian students going to USA to have a better understanding. 

Cons

• Restrictive or Binding Admissions: Binding admission means if a candidate is offered admission, he/ she must attend that institution. ED applicants can only apply in ED to one school and must withdraw all other applications if accepted. 
• Limited Availability of Financial Aid: Students seeking financial aid may not be able to compare financial aid from multiple institutions due to restrictive admissions. Hence, applicants with financial difficulties are suggested to apply through Early Action instead of Early Decision program.
• Admissions not Guaranteed: The admissions may seem easier through the Early Decision program but still not guaranteed as multiple factors are taken into consideration. Those missing out on any of these factors may fail to secure admission.

Top Universities for Early Decision

Regular Decision Application Round in USA

Regular Decision is the standard application deadline to apply for undergraduate admissions in the USA. It has later deadlines (often January or later) and decisions typically released by March or April.  Candidates must confirm their place upon acceptance by the end of April or Early May to secure admissions.

Pros

• Enough time to Prepare for Essay: With Regular Decisions being the final deadline, you have enough time to prepare your essays and make necessary changes wherever required.
• Enough Time To Make Final Decisions: With Regular decision, you have enough time to choose your desired course, review admission requirements and prepare necessary documents before applying.
• Better Chances of Admission: Those with strong academic background have higher chances of admissions, as one can apply for multiple colleges without any restrictions.

Cons

• Less Time for Arrangement: Since Regular Decision is the final application round, you may not have enough time to prepare for travel arrangements, accommodation, and funds.
• Highly Competitive Admission: The majority of applicants apply through Regular Decisions, which leads to highly competitive admissions. Hence, it is advisable to apply earlier to avoid last minute hassles.
• Limited Seats for Admission: Due to the higher level of competition, there are generally limited seats in Regular Decision Round. Those applying in earlier have the greater advantage of admission, given they have a strong academic background.

Top Universities for Regular Decision

Early Action Vs Early Decision Vs Regular Decision: At a Glance

The following table summarizes the differences between Early Action Vs Early Decision Vs Regular Decision.

Students with exceptional academic performance in their high school are advised to apply earlier in order to receive priority consideration. However, those who are not prepared may consider applying to the standard application round to get enough time for preparation. Before applying for either of the rounds, it is important to understand the pros and cons as mentioned above. These factors will surely help in making the final decision and help you understand what works better for you.

FAQs

Ques. Is it better to apply Early Action or Regular Decision to Harvard?

Ques. Should I apply through Early Action or Regular Decision to MIT?

Ques. What is the acceptance rate for MIT Regular decisions?