<p>Hi, I was wondering whether it was possible to apply to two schools early--one, under an EA format and the other ED. I know that ED is binding, but acceptance under EA is not. Any replies would be greatly appreciated.</p>
<p>It depends on the individual schools. Some ED schools will allow you to apply to other places EA, and vice versa. However, some schools will state specifically that you can not apply early anywhere else (EA or ED).</p>
<p>I agree that it is necessary to read carefully each school's statement on the matter. Some ED schools state that EA applications aren't allow. Some schools state that when applying ED, no other ED applications are allowed and nothing is said about EA. This leaves an applicant free to apply EA to non-SCEA schools such as MIT and Univ of Chicago. [But of course, you can't apply to YAle, for example, as it is SCEA and it restricts you from applying elsewhere early.] Once accepted to the ED school, you must attend and are not free to go to an EA school (assuming you had been accepted).</p>