<p>OK, just to make sure I've got this right...</p>
<p>ED = Early Decision = Binding</p>
<p>EA = Early Action = non-Binding</p>
<p>Right? Is this vocab universal at ALL colleges? Or are there some exceptions out there that use the terms differently?</p>
<p>So, if I'm correct above, conventional wisdom seems to say students should take the EA option at their safeties. This will allow them to concentrate on apps to matches and reaches without panic and pressure. Right?</p>
<p>Lastly, is there an easy way to determine if a school has EA? Individual websites, I presume. But, is there a centralized list anywhere?</p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>There is also SCEA (Single Choice Early Action) at a few schools, which means that you may not apply to any other early programs, although you may apply to other RD programs. Usually with EA, you may apply to as many as you want, several may come in with acceptances, and you can wait until May 1 to decide among EAs and RDs. With ED, you may still apply to other RD schools, but if you are accepted ED, you must withdraw all other apps. You are correct, EA is not binding, and ED is. You can search on google or some other place to see if there is a centralized list. Not sure about that one.</p>
<p>You can look up the college on collegeboard.com and its early admissions policies will be listed under "admissions".</p>