Choosing the right college can be an overwhelming task for high school seniors, given the myriad options available. One approach that has gained popularity in recent years is an application process that allows students to apply to their dream school early in their senior year, providing several advantages that make it a compelling option.
This process, known as Early Decision (ED), permits students to submit applications and receive admission decisions earlier than the regular decision timeline. Typically, ED applications are due between October 15th and November 1st, and decisions are communicated by mid-December. What sets ED apart is its binding nature— if a student is accepted, they are committed to attending that particular institution. While not suitable for everyone, particularly students who cannot commit to binding offers without hearing financial aid offerings from schools, ED does offer a range of benefits that can make the college application journey more manageable and rewarding. From a less stressful application process to increased admission odds, it provides a unique pathway for students aiming to secure a spot at their top-choice school.
One significant advantage of this approach is the reduced stress associated with the college application process. Senior year already comes with a mountain of stress, and according to Ava Vivolo (‘24), “the application process adds an additional layer of stress to an already anxiety-provoking time.” Between schoolwork, friends and family, and the obvious college application process, students need an option that grants them the opportunity to navigate senior year with a smaller weight on their shoulders. Traditional application cycles often extend through the winter and spring of senior year, leading to prolonged periods of uncertainty for students. In contrast, ED applications are typically due in early November, and decisions are often released by December. This quicker turnaround provides students with a sense of relief, allowing them to enjoy the remainder of their senior year without the looming stress of college applications.
Conversely, the image of a “second semester senior,” a student who puts less effort towards coursework following admission to college, has become something of a legend at high schools across the country, including Mamaroneck, as more students are admitted to college earlier. A rise in ED, while allowing students time to destress at the end of senior year, could also increase disengagement among students in the second half of senior year.
ED does have other advantages, among them that applying through this round, at some schools, significantly increases the likelihood of gaining admission to your preferred college. Colleges often reserve a substantial portion of their incoming class for ED applicants, resulting in higher acceptance rates compared to those who opt for the regular decision route, which typically sees a larger applicant pool. By making an early commitment to a particular school, students send the message of true interest and dedication, something that positively influences the admission decision. This approach signals to the admissions team that a student is genuinely committed to being part of their academic community, potentially tipping the scales in your favor.
The journey from high school to college is undoubtedly a challenging and transformative period for every student. ED offers the pathway to a less stressful application process, allowing students to fully enjoy their final year of high school without the prolonged stress of waiting for college acceptance letters and making multiple decisions simultaneously. This sense of clarity not only eases the transition into higher education but also fosters an environment where students can focus on personal growth, academic pursuits, and creating lasting memories.
