<p>I hear that they are some benefits when you apply trough early decision. What exactly is early decision, and in what way does it help you?</p>
<p>If you apply and are accepted through early decision, your are bound to that school, and you must withdraw all other applications.</p>
<p>With ED, you would apply by Nov. 1 (or Nov. 15, depending on the school), and you'll receive the results by about mid December.</p>
<p>Some schools have a higher acceptance rate for ED compared to RD</p>
<p>There are some extensive discussions regarding ED in the College Admissions forum.</p>