<p>I was just wondering what the difference between early decision and early action is.
Could someone tell me</p>
<p>That answer is easily found, but I will tell you what I know. The difference is that Early DECISION is binding and Early ACTION is not. That means that in both early programs you find out the ad com's decision early, but for EA you don't have to commit until May 1. You are allowed to hear from other schools and make your own decision based on other information (FA, acceptances, etc.). For ED, once you have been accepted, you are obliged to withdraw all other applications. Also, for ED, and this is the clincher, you are supposedly bound to attend. That means that you need to be certain that the finances are acceptable to you before you apply ED. The big controversy surrounds FA. While there doesn't seem to be too much a school will do to FORCE you to attend, it is really not a very good idea to apply, knowing the financial situation, and then rescind on your commitment because you can't afford it. Early ACTION seems to be the best of all worlds. You apply and hear back early, and then you can still decide later. For many EA schools, also, you are allowed to apply to other EA programs. Not true with all schools though.</p>
<p>Yeah, some über-selective schools have Early Action programs where you can't apply anywhere else early (e.g., Yale, Stanford I believe?), but most schools allow EA applicants to apply to other schools.</p>
<p>i don't think EA has much use other than to inform you whether you got in early. and by use i mean easier admissions etc.</p>
<p>This is how I remember the difference...</p>
<p>"D" for Decision and "D" for DEFINITELY must enroll</p>
<p>"A" for Action and "A" for Alternatives allowed</p>