Before choosing, students must fully comprehend all of their options because each has its own set of guidelines, benefits, and factors to take into account. An Early Decision (ED) is a legally binding contract that the university and the student sign. When students apply through Early Decision and are accepted, they are obligated to withdraw all other applications and enroll in that specific university. This is the best choice for students who know exactly which school they want to attend if accepted, and who know it is their first choice. Early Decision applications are typically due in November, and students usually receive admission decisions by mid-December.

Students can apply to universities and receive early admission decisions through Early Action (EA), a non-binding early application plan, without having to commit to enrolling. This option provides the advantage of early notification, typically between mid-December and mid-February, while still allowing students to consider other universities and compare financial aid packages.

While it has limitations, Restrictive Early Action (REA) is comparable to Early Action. Students are not permitted to apply Early Decision or Early Action to private universities under REA, but they are permitted to apply early to public universities. Similarly, some universities, such as Princeton, Yale, and Harvard, offer a restricted early application plan called Single Choice Early Action (SCEA). Early Decision or Early Action applications to private universities are not permitted for students applying through SCEA, but early applications to public schools are.

Many students opt for early application plans due to perceived statistical advantages and benefits. Students can show a university that they are very interested in and committed to it by applying early. Additionally, some universities tend to have higher acceptance rates for early applicants compared to their regular decision pool. Early notification also provides students with a clear understanding of their college plans sooner, potentially reducing stress associated with the application process.

Before making a decision right away, students must, however, carefully weigh the consequences. This option is binding, meaning that if students are accepted, they are obligated to enroll at that specific university and withdraw all other applications. Factors such as financial considerations, fit with the university, and the ability to compare financial aid packages should be carefully weighed before making a decision.

Ultimately, the choice to apply through Early Decision should be based on thorough research, personal circumstances, and a genuine desire to attend the specific university. Students need to review each university's policies and requirements to make an informed decision aligned with their goals and preferences. An Early Decision Agreement detailing the terms and conditions, including the requirement to withdraw applications to other colleges upon acceptance, must be signed by applicants and their counselors.