early action vs early decision

Applying to College
1

<p>I really can't seem to figure out the difference between the two and it's really just driving me nuts. Can someone kindly please explain both of them? thank you all :)!!!</p>

2

<p><a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-admissions/1504956-how-much-does-applying-early-decision-help-your-chances-does-all.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-admissions/1504956-how-much-does-applying-early-decision-help-your-chances-does-all.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

3

<p>Early admission is just applying early.</p>

<p>Early Decision is applying early, and if accepted, having to attend that school (unless it’s financially unreasonable).</p>

4

<p>Early Action: You apply early and get an admission decision early. You can still apply to other schools, and you don’t have to make up your mind about which school to attend until May 1.</p>

<p>Early Decision: You apply early and get an admission decision early. If accepted, you are obligated to attend that school and must withdraw any applications to other schools. If you are rejected or deferred, you are then free to apply to other schools.</p>

<p>One way to keep them straight in your mind: with Early Decision, you are making a definite decision to attend that school if accepted. Therefore, you should only apply Early Decision if you are absolutely certain you want to attend that school over all others, and that you can afford it.</p>