Early Decision

What is early decision?

Early decision is a college admission option that allows students to apply early to their first-choice college and receive an admission decision sooner than they typically would through regular decision.

Unlike early action, early decision is binding. Students who are accepted through early decision generally agree to enroll at that college and withdraw their applications from other institutions.

How does early decision work?

Students applying through early decision submit their application and required materials by an earlier deadline. The college then reviews their application and typically provides an admission decision earlier in the admission cycle.

Because early decision is a binding agreement, students can typically apply to only one college through this admission option. However, they may still apply to other schools through non-binding admission plans while waiting for their decision, subject to each college’s application policies.

Early decision is generally best suited for students who have thoroughly researched their college options and are confident about their first-choice school.

Early decision deadlines

Early decision deadlines vary by college but are typically during the fall or winter of a student’s senior year of high school.

Some colleges offer two early decision application rounds, commonly called Early Decision I and Early Decision II. Both are binding, but the second round gives students additional time to prepare their applications.

Students should review each college’s admission deadlines and requirements before applying.

Is early decision binding?

Yes, early decision is a binding admission agreement. If accepted, students are generally required to enroll at that institution, withdraw applications submitted to other colleges, and decline other offers of admission.

This is the main difference between early decision and early action. While both allow students to receive an admission decision earlier, early action is generally non-binding and does not require students to commit to attending.

Pros and cons of early decision

Early decision can be a good option for students who are certain about where they want to attend college. However, it’s important to consider both the benefits and limitations before applying.

Pros of early decision include:

• Demonstrating a strong commitment to your first-choice college
• Having additional time to prepare for college if accepted early
• Receiving an admission decision sooner
• Reducing uncertainty about your college plans earlier in the admission process

Potential drawbacks include:

• Committing to one college before exploring all your options
• Facing an earlier application deadline
• Having less time to strengthen your application with additional grades or accomplishments
• Having limited opportunities to compare financial aid offers from different schools

Can I back out of early decision acceptance?

Because early decision is binding, students are generally expected to honor their enrollment commitment if accepted.

However, colleges may release students from an early decision agreement under certain circumstances, such as when the financial aid package makes attendance unaffordable.

Students who believe they cannot fulfill their commitment should contact the college’s admission or financial aid office to discuss their situation. Simply changing your mind or receiving an offer from another college typically isn’t considered a valid reason to withdraw.

Explore your options at University of Bridgeport