Applying to college is already stressful—and then you’re hit with four confusing options: Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA), Restrictive Early Action (REA), and Regular Decision (RD).
What do they actually mean when applying to college? Which one gives you the best shot at getting in? Which one locks you in for good?
Let’s clear it up. In this guide, you’ll get a no-fluff breakdown of what Early Decision, Early Action, Restrictive Early Action, and Regular Decision really are—plus when and why to choose each.
If you’re unsure whether to apply early, want to boost your odds, or just need help planning your deadlines, you’re in the right place.
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly which option fits your goals—and how to avoid costly mistakes along the way.
Key Takeaways
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- What Early Decision, Early Action, Restrictive Early Action, and Regular Decision mean when applying to college
- The pros, cons, and deadlines for each
- How to choose the right plan based on your timeline, risk tolerance, and goals
What is ED, EA, REA, and RD?
When you’re applying to college, you’ll see a lot of terms like Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA), Restrictive Early Action (REA), and Regular Decision (RD). These are all different ways to apply, and they each have their own rules and deadlines.
Early Decision (ED)
Early Decision is a binding choice. That means if a school accepts you, you must go. You can only apply to one school ED. Deadlines are usually around November 1, and you’ll hear back in December.
Use this if you have a clear first-choice college, and you’re 100% sure you’ll go if accepted.
Important Notes About Early Decision (ED)
When applying ED, your school counselors, and parent/guardian are essentially signing an agreement with the institution that you WILL commit to their school, if accepted.
You cannot back out of this offer, unless extenuating circumstances occur.
Such extenuating circumstances can include:
- Financial Constraints (such as not receiving enough financial aid from the target institution)
- Natural Disasters (Earthquakes, Hurricanes, Wildfires)
- Extensive Bodily Injury (getting into a car crash or being treated for a long-term disease)
- Not getting into your desired program (like JHU’s Biomedical Engineering Program)
If you DO decide to back out of the offer without providing a valid reason, you can get blacklisted from that institution. This can prevent you from applying to other colleges for that admissions cycle entirely.
Additionally, the institution may hold it against future applicants from that high school. It can negatively impact your school’s reputation as you are “breaking” this agreement/contract you signed when applying ED.
Some Schools that Offer ED
Early Action (EA)
Early Action is non-binding. You apply early (also around November) and get a decision early, but you don’t have to commit yet. You can apply EA to multiple schools, unless they have restrictions (see REA below).
This is great if you want early answers but still want choices.
Some Schools that Offer EA
Restrictive Early Action (REA)
Restrictive Early Action is a mix between ED and EA. It’s non-binding like Early Action, but you can usually only apply early to one private school. Rules vary by college, so always check.
For instance, if you choose to apply to Harvard REA, you cannot apply to any other school that offers REA, ED, or EA. That’s why it’s called “restrictive” early action because you are only allowed to apply to one school.
If you’re wondering how to choose between restrictive early action and early decision, think about whether you want to commit right away (ED) or keep your options open (REA).
Some Schools that Offer REA
Only 6 institutions currently offer REA. Those institutions are Harvard, Stanford, Caltech, Princeton, Yale, and Notre Dame.
Note: Notre Dame has a special REA policy. Read more about it here.
Regular Decision (RD)
Regular Decision is the standard option. It’s non-binding, and deadlines are usually around January 1. You’ll hear back by March or April.
This gives you more time to improve your grades, test scores, or finish your essays.
Tip: If you’re not sure how to choose between early action and regular decision, think about how ready your application is and whether you’d benefit from more time.
When Do You Apply and Hear Back? (Timeline Comparison)
When applying to college, each decision type—early decision, early action, restrictive early action, and regular decision—has its own timeline. Knowing when to apply and when you’ll hear back can help you plan better.
Here’s a quick chart:
| Plan | Apply By | Decision By | Commit By |
| Early Decision (ED) | Nov. 1 | Mid-December | May 1 |
| Early Action (EA) | Nov. 1 | January 1 | May 1 |
| Restrictive Early Action (REA) | Nov. 1 | Mid-December | May 1 |
| Regular Decision (RD) | ~ Early-Mid January | Late March – Early April | May 1 |
What This Means for You
- With Early Decision, you apply early and hear back early—but remember, it’s binding. If you’re deciding how to choose between early decision and regular decision, ask yourself if you’re ready to commit now or want to wait.
- With Early Action, you also apply early, but you don’t have to commit right away. That gives you more time to compare schools and financial aid offers.
- Restrictive Early Action follows the same timeline as ED but isn’t binding. If you’re thinking about how to choose between restrictive early action and early action, check each college’s rules—some limit how many schools you can apply to early.
- Regular Decision is the latest option. You apply in January, get results in the spring, and still have until May 1 to decide.
No matter what, May 1 is usually the deadline to choose your school and send your deposit.
Pros and Cons of Each Application Plan
When applying to college, choosing between decision plans can feel tricky. Each option has its ups and downs. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Early Decision (ED)
Pros:
You may have a better chance of getting in at select institutions. You also find out early, which means less stress waiting.
Cons:
It’s binding, so if you’re accepted, you must go, unless the financial aid greatly prevents you from attending.
Tip: Only choose ED if you’re 100% sure of the school and don’t need to compare costs.
Early Action (EA)
Pros:
You apply early, find out sooner, and don’t have to commit right away. You can also compare financial aid from different schools.
Cons:
You may not get the same boost in chances as you would with early decision.
Tip: If you’re unsure how to choose between early action and early decision, think about how ready you are to commit.
Restrictive Early Action (REA)
Pros:
You apply early, show strong interest, and still don’t have to commit. It can help your chances at selective schools.
Cons:
ou usually can’t apply early to other private colleges.
Tip: Wondering how to choose between restrictive early action and regular decision? REA is great if you’re set on one top school but want to keep your options open.
Regular Decision (RD)
Pros:
You have more time to finish your essays, boost your grades, or improve test scores. No pressure to commit early.
Cons:
You may face more competition and won’t hear back until spring.
Tip: If you’re not ready to commit or apply early, regular decision gives you the most flexibility when applying to college.
Who Should Apply When? (Eligibility and Strategy Tips)
Before choosing early decision, early action, restrictive early action, or regular decision, ask yourself a few quick questions:
- Are you ready by the deadline? If your grades, test scores, and essays are strong by fall, early plans may work for you. If not, regular decision gives you more time.
- Do you need to compare financial aid? ED doesn’t let you see offers from other schools while EA, REA, and RD do.
- Does your school allow multiple early applications? Some schools limit early options, especially for restrictive early action.
- Does your college list include reach, match, and safety schools? Make sure your choices fit your goals—don’t apply ED to a big reach unless you’re okay with the risk.
Being honest about your situation helps you gauge when to apply during college applications season.
Plus, it’ll save you a lot of stress down the line when the deadlines loom closer.
How to Decide Which Plan Is Right for You
When applying to college, choosing between decision plans comes down to what matters most to you.
- Do you want flexibility or security? ED is a sure thing if accepted, but you lose the chance to compare schools. RD gives you time and options.
- What’s your risk level? ED is great if you’re confident in your grades and finances. If not, EA, REA, or RD may be safer.
- Talk to your counselor and family. They can help you weigh your choices.
- Make a decision chart. List pros and cons for each plan based on your situation.
If you’re not sure how to choose between early action and regular decision (or any combo), this simple process can help you make the right call.
Conclusion
Choosing between early decision, early action, restrictive early action, and regular decision depends on your goals, deadlines, and how ready you are. ED is binding, EA and REA give early answers, and RD offers the most time.
Think about your grades, financial needs, and how certain you are about your top school. Talk to your counselor, make a plan, and stay on track.
Start early, stay organized, and pick the option that fits you best.
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