Early Action Tips and Tricks: Boost Your Chances of Getting into a Top 20 University

Many top universities offer Early Action plans, including several Ivy League schools and other highly selective institutions. Some notable examples include:

• Harvard University

• Stanford University

• University of Pennsylvania

• Duke University

• Northwestern University

• University of Chicago

• Johns Hopkins University

It's essential to research the specific admission policies for each university, as some schools may have restrictions or unique requirements for Early Action applicants. Be sure to check the university's website or consult with a guidance counselor to confirm their Early Action policies.

Early Decision (ED) is a binding agreement, requiring students to commit to attending the university if accepted. This means that students who apply for Early Decision must withdraw their applications from other colleges and universities. In contrast, Early Action is non-binding, allowing students to consider multiple options and make a final decision later. 

Another key difference is the level of commitment required. Early Decision applicants are essentially promising to attend the university if accepted, whereas Early Action applicants are simply expressing interest and exploring their options. This distinction is crucial, as it affects the level of flexibility and freedom students have in their college search process.

The primary difference between Early Action and Regular Decision is the timeline. Early Action applications are typically due in November or December, with decisions arriving by December or January. Regular Decision applications, on the other hand, are usually due in January or February, with decisions arriving in March or April. 

By applying Early Action, students can receive an early response and potentially gain an advantage in the admission process. Regular Decision applicants, however, must wait longer for a decision and may face stiffer competition, as more students typically apply during this period.

EA is a great option for students who are confident in their applications and want to demonstrate their strong interest in attending a particular university. Students who should consider applying for EA typically have:

• Strong academic records, including high grades and challenging coursework

• Competitive test scores (SAT or ACT)

• Meaningful extracurricular activities and leadership experiences

• A clear and compelling personal statement

• A well-researched and thoughtful list of schools

EA is also a good fit for students who want to get a head start on the college application process and potentially increase their chances of admission. However, students who are unsure about their top choice school or need more time to work on their applications may want to consider applying for RD instead. 

By understanding the ins and outs of Early Action, students can make informed decisions about their college application strategy and increase their chances of being accepted into a top 20 university. Remember to research specific schools, deadlines, and requirements to determine if EA is the right fit for you.

However, it's important to note that Early Action may not be the best choice for students who:

• Need more time to improve their applications or test scores

• Are unsure about their college choices and want to explore more options

• Are applying to multiple Early Decision schools and want to keep their options open