WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EARLY ACTION AND EARLY DECISION AND WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOUR COLLEGE-BOUND SENIOR?

WHAT IS EARLY DECISION?

Early decision is binding, requiring a commitment to attend the school if you are admitted. For this reason, you may only apply to one school early decision The deadline typically falls on or around November 1st.

WHAT IS EARLY ACTION?

Early action is non-binding and most colleges will allow you to apply to multiple schools this way. Deadlines to submit applications under early action also fall on or around November 1st.

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A DECISION TREE

THE EXPERTS HAVE THESE SUGGESTIONS:

You should apply early decision if:

• The school is clearly your top choice.
• You can afford to attend without financial ai.

You should apply early action if:

• You are seriously considering more han one school.
• Your grade-point average already meets the school's requirements.
• You don't plan to take the SAT or ACT again.

You should apply regular decision if:

• You want your senior-year grades reflected in your GPA.
• You want to retake the SAT or ACT.
• You need more time to research and visit schools.