<p>I've been debating whether or not I should apply early action vs. regular decision. Would it help me by applying early action or hurt me in the admissions process? The one main reason I'd want to apply early action is just to have all of my applications turned in and have everything done, but I could turn everything early and just opt to apply regular decision...</p>
<p>It depends on which schools you’re talking about. Normally, EA admission rates may be higher for top schools and it’s easier to stand out in a smaller applicant pool.</p>
<p>I don’t know of a downside to EA. If it’s Single-Choice EA (such as Yale or Stanford), you wouldn’t be able to apply through any other EA programs. ED is an entirely different animal. The odds are often better with an ED program, but you’d better be certain of your ability to pay regardless of what an aid package may eventually contain (or not contain).</p>
<p>I have heard some schools like seeing kids apply EA, means they are well prepared, well organized, etc. and can get it together in time to make that early deadline.</p>
<p>In my opinion, there is nothing to lose by going for early action. Some schools will have a better acceptance rate while others may not. However, if it is a school you have the least bit interest in, but you could definitely see yourself attending it and you have the stats to get in, I feel you should go early action to avoid stress and know by December that you at least have a backup plan if youre denied by reach schools.</p>
<p>I don’t understand why anyone would not take advantage of non-binding EA if it’s available. Why would you not want an answer in December instead of in March? When an EA school in the middle or high end of your list accepts you, it then becomes a safety (if money is not an issue). Then you can drop any schools with later deadlines that you prefer less.</p>
<p>Lots of kids can’t quite get it together to get application done in time…agree 100%, why NOT!</p>
<p>Sometimes you need first semester senior grades and EC’s to boost your application.</p>