Regular Decision vs. Early Decision

Are you deciding whether to apply Regular Decision or Early Decision (ED)?

Several students want to apply Early Decision when they compare admission rates between Early Decision and Regular Decision. Schools are more likely to accept students that WILL attend their university. Likewise, finding out where you are going to school in December is appealing to most high school students. But before you apply ED here are the questions to ask yourself.

• 1. Are you a student who has done extensive research into many colleges, has made several campus visits (in person or virtually) and has found your dream school? If you are sure you want to attend a certain university, ED is a way to show that school is your first choice and you will attend if given the opportunity.

• 2. Are you a student who will need to compare the financial aid offers of several colleges? If you will need to compare financial aid packages, Regular Decision is your best option. However, if your family is not applying for financial aid ED is a great option

• 3. Is your application complete? Meaning would your senior first semester grades improve your application? Are your test scores where you want them? Although a majority of schools are test-optional this year, would a higher test score that you took in December improve your application? Are you happy with all your extracurriculars or do you need a few more months to improve your resume? Are you working on a research project that you need time to complete? If you are happy with your grades, scores and activities by October, ED may be for you. But if you need more time to beef up your application, Regular Decision may be your best bet.

Only you can decide what is the best option for you and your family. If you need any more information about when to apply, please reach out to me.