As a high school student, the college admission process can be overwhelming and filled with numerous decisions to make. One of these decisions is whether or not to apply for Early Decision (ED). On one hand, early decision can provide students with an early acceptance, a sense of relief, and open up the remainder to truly live and experience their final year of high school. On the other hand, it should be considered with real diligence and comes with some risks and limitations.
Before making a decision, it is crucial for students to understand what Early Decision entails. Early decision is a binding agreement that requires students to attend the college if they are accepted. This means that students must withdraw all other college applications (immediately!). This is distinct from Early Action. Some colleges (including Princeton, Yale, Harvard, Stanford, Notre Dame and Georgetown) also have Restricted Early Action. Policies vary by the university, so it is important to check.
Early Decision definitely has perks, most notably, students and families may be enthralled to see that some colleges and universities have a much higher acceptance rate (check the difference in acceptance rates between early and regular decision here). However, numbers may be deceptive and will not tell the whole story. ED may seem appealing, but it is not the right choice for everyone. Here are some things to consider before making a decision:
Certainty of College Choice - Early decision is only suitable for students who are certain about their college choice and are confident that they will attend the college if accepted.
Financial Aid - Early decision programs do not allow students to compare financial aid packages from multiple colleges, which can be a significant drawback for students with financial constraints.
Limiting Options - By committing to one college through early decision, students limit their options and restrict their ability to explore other colleges and opportunities. If students feel ‘late’ to researching or really getting to know a wide range of schools, it may not be the best option.
Less Time to Decide - Early decision applications are typically due in November, which can pressure students to make a quick decision without fully researching and comparing their options. With that said, a number of colleges, especially liberal arts colleges, also offer Early Decision 2. This is a bit of a misnomer, there is really nothing early about it! However it is also a binding admissions plan, and is favorably regarded by admissions offices.
Early decision is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Students should carefully consider their college options, financial constraints, and future plans before making a decision. High school students should work with their high school counselors, family, and allies to explore their options and make informed decisions about the college admission process. By doing so, students can ensure they find the right fit and have a successful college experience.