You’ve created a list of your preferred, safe, and realistically attainable schools, and one of them makes your heart beat a bit quicker. Should you apply early to show your interest?
A lot of universities let candidates submit their application documents by an early deadline in the fall. The deadline is usually earlier than the standard deadline, which is in January or February. Read ahead before you decide to apply early.
Early decision
If you are admitted through early decision, you have to withdraw any applications you may have made for the regular deadlines at other institutions and commit to attending that school. Under early decision, you are not allowed to apply to more than one college for the same. You will either be denied or postponed if you are not approved. Rejected candidates are not permitted to reapply that year. Deferred candidates may still submit applications to other institutions through the regular admissions session. Early decision dates frequently fall in November, and decisions are generally communicated to students in December.
Early Action
Early action, on the other hand, is non-binding. In other words, even if you are admitted, you are not required to go. Additionally, you can apply for early action at certain universities. Early decision and early action deadlines typically coincide. Early action has a clear advantage over early decision since it allows you to apply to more schools and eventually evaluate their financial aid offers. You run the risk of missing other institutions’ deadlines for admission if you are awarded early decision since you will be waiting for your award package.
Advantages of applying early:
- Cuts down admission stress
If your first choice of school accepts you, there is no need to waste time and money on alternative applications. It is a great choice for students who have a dream school in mind. - Helps express seriousness and dedication
Applying early demonstrates to your preferred school that you are committed to going there. Schools keep track of the number of candidates who accept their offers of admission and make those figures public. When a large portion of approved candidates decide to enrol, the institution appears to be doing well. Therefore, if they believe you are likely to accept their admissions offer, it might help your application.
How can Rostrum Education help?
At Rostrum, our counselors help you get into your dream school. While you would want to maximize your chances of getting into your school of preference by applying early, we make sure your application has an edge over other students. Contact us for more information today!