Early Action (EA): This is non-binding. You can apply to several colleges via Early Action. Even if you’re accepted, you’re not obligated to attend. Early Action college applications are also usually due in November, though a few schools have earlier deadlines.

Restrictive Early Action (REA): This is also non-binding but these colleges don’t want you applying to any binding programs at the same time. Like EA and ED, REA applications (sometimes called Single-choice Early Action) are typically due in November. 

• Important exception: REA means students cannot apply ED/EA to other schools, except to state universities. This exception allows families to hear back from lower-tuition public schools. It also gives students leeway to consider several EA offers.

Early Decision (ED): This is legally binding and you can only apply to one school ED. If you get in, you have to withdraw all your other applications and attend your Early Decision College. ED applications are usually due in November, though a few schools’ have earlier deadlines. Some colleges have two rounds of EDI and EDII (fall and winter).

• • Students sign a contract (not a legal document) saying they will abide by the ED restrictions and schools are very serious about this. For students considering applications to universities in countries outside the United States, you may have some flexibility about holding an ED offer in the US and conditional offers from universities outside the US. Talk to your school counselor about this.