By the middle of October, seniors face some very difficult decisions: whether or not to apply early decision and, if so, where. Colleges offer early action, early decision or regular decision and often a combination of an early deadline and a regular deadline.. With three different options, one would think that this process would be easier, but in reality it is not so. The distinguishing characteristic of early decision is its binding agreement. Upon applying, students acknowledge and accept that if they get in, they must attend this school.

            While this presents seniors with a tough choice, it also has some advantages. First of all, applying early decision can help one’s chances of acceptance. According to most admission officers, approximately 30 percent of students are admitted early which provides applicants with better odds because there is a smaller pool. Schools such as Duke University have stated the difference is as significant as 1 in 3 applicants getting accepted early compared to 1 in 7 being regularly admitted. 

            Additionally, early decision is one way students can distinguish themselves from the regular candidates. By signing the contract on the application, they are promising to attend the school if admitted which schools appreciate. When officers review the folders they receive, they are most interested in two things: how this individual will fit into our school and what he or she will contribute. When students apply for early admittance, they are implying that this is their first choice and a place at which they believe they will be a positive addition. From a statistical standpoint, admissions officers want to admit students who they believe are likely to enroll. A large percentage of applicants gets admitted early because schools want to know how much money they can definitively count on.

            An advantage for applicants applying early decision is the early notice. For most schools, the letters are sent on Dec. 15 which is about five months earlier than those mailed to regular decision candidates. The relief accepted students experience can make the remainder of senior year less stressful and more fun. In addition, students admitted early don’t have to apply to other schools. With application prices ranging from $40-$70 applying to one school means saving almost five hundred dollars depending on the individual, not to mention hours of essay writing.

For many, financial aid plays a large role in the college process. With exorbitant prices, college is extremely difficult for families to afford. From a school’s perspective, early decision is good because it forces families to accept the minimal financial aid package offered. Unlike with regular decision where students can be lured to schools with more generous packages, those who apply early give up their chances at getting the best overall package. This reality makes the decision process more difficult for students who need assistance. Those who are deferred still have another chance at regular decision. The officers put the application back into the mix and give it a second read again in the spring. Thus, essentially that person has two chances at admission.

            While early decision can be problematic for families in need of financial aid, or individuals who cannot make up their minds by Nov. 1, it has proven to be a good option for many. Those who feel strongly about one particular school can increase their odds and find out early, which lessens their anxiety. The choice is an extremely difficult one, yet in the end, should be an option left on the table for students fortunate enough to have good decision making skills.