Early Action vs. Early Decision
First things first: It’s important to understand the difference between Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED) application plans.
Early Action and Early Decision options are not the same: An Early Action plan means that a student applies to a school early and receives an early response to their application but does not have to commit to the college until the normal reply date. In other words, an EA plan is non-binding. An Early Decision plan, though, is binding.
According to Collegeboard.org, students who are accepted on an ED application must attend that college.
While Early Decision plans are not legally binding, students who are accepted based on an ED plan and then choose not to attend that school may be blacklisted from any other school – unless released from the verbal agreement. Generally, the only way a student will be released from the ED agreement is based on financial factors, outlined in a formal letter to the school.
It’s important that school counselors, parents, guardians, and college-bound students alike really understand the key distinction between these two plans so as to avoid confusion and stress down the road.
Early Action Deadlines & Admission Decisions
Many schools establish their Early Action application deadlines in early- to mid-November. In mid-December, Early Action applicants will receive an admission decision.
If accepted, this means that Early Action students will know where they will be attending college several months before traditional college applicants.
Something to keep in mind: Applying this early means that college-bound students must have various forms and requirements complete before their peers. Early Action applicants must have finalized standardized test scores, college application essays, and letters of recommendation all complete and ready for final submission.
It’s important to stay on top of these moving parts, but don’t worry — we have a resource for that too.
It’s important to stay on top of these moving parts,
but don’t worry — we have a resource for that too.
Early Action: Questions to Consider
Maybe you’re wondering if an Early Action plan is right for you. It’s a legitimate concern. This is a decision that you should think about very seriously before moving forward with this option.
Here are a few questions you should ask yourself if you’re thinking about Early Action:
- Have you researched colleges extensively?
- Are you absolutely sure that the college you've chosen is your first choice?
- Have you found a college that is a strong match for you academically, socially, and geographically?
- Do you meet or exceed the admission profile for the college (SAT® scores, GPA, class rank, etc)?
- Do you have an academic record that has been consistently solid over time?
Applying to an Early Action plan is appropriate for future college students who have seriously considered the above questions and who are ready to make an informed decision about where to attend college.
,
REQUEST MORE INFORMATION
Interested in learning more about going to college at Marymount University? We invite you to request more information today!
Scholarships for Early Action Appliers
Early Action Deadline:
The Marymount application or Common Application must be submitted by November 15. All supporting materials (recommendations, transcripts, etc.) must be received December 1.
Decision Notification Date:
Early Action applicants will receive an admission decision by December 14 at the latest.
Enrollment Deposit Deadline:
Students who are accepted to Marymount as Early Action applicants must submit their enrollment deposit by May 1 if they choose to attend Marymount.