Being a newbie to the college application process - does it make a difference - early action vs. regular decision. Is there a big difference with admission - are you more likely to get in applying early action or is it the same odds applying regular decision. Not sure if I will be ready with my essays and application by then - would like to fine tune my essay.
There have been so many threads on this topic, just search the forum and you will find many answers. It really depends on the schools. In general, EA offers a slight advantage over RD. The more restrictive the more advantage, so the order of advantage looks like this: ED>REA>EA>RD.
Some schools tie their merit aid and honors college reviews to the early action deadlines. Other schools do rolling admission and fill their class kind of first come first serve. And lastly, there are other schools that have higher acceptance rates for early decision. Do your homework for each school on your list!
Even if there is no admission advantage to applying non-binding EA or early rolling, you may get an admission offer early. If the school is also affordable, then it becomes a safety if it admits you, and if it admits you early, you may be able to eliminate applications to any other school that you find unconditionally less desirable.