What are ED, EA and RD, under which admission is available in American colleges? understand here

US Application Process Explained: It is important for Indians considering studying in the US to understand the different application processes. Only on this basis they are able to make a strategy for admission. The last dates of application are very important in this entire process. Every college has its own admission timeline. In such a situation, knowing about these dates is not just a formality, but an important step to strengthen your chances of getting admission in college.
American colleges give various deadlines for submitting applications. There is an ‘Early Decision’ (ED) under which if you get admission then you have to go to that college. ‘Early Action’ (EA) is a little more flexible, giving students the option to apply early, but you are not obligated to attend college like ED.

‘Regular Decision’ is the most common option, through which students get more time to prepare. The application deadline is usually in January. ‘Rolling admission’ is also an option that students can avail of. Under this, once the admission is received, it is reviewed. In this you get more options, but you need to apply early.

What is the deadline for ‘Early Decision’ applications?

For those students who have already made up their mind about which college they want to take admission in and want to join the college as soon as possible, there is ‘Early Decision’ application. When a student applies under ED, he/she accepts that if he/she gets admission, he/she will study in the same college. It will also withdraw the applications given in other colleges. Through ED, the seriousness of the student is revealed and how eager he/she is to take admission in the institute.

Under ‘Early Decision’, applications for college admission are made in November and the decision is taken by mid-December. Under this, students get the answer on admission before time. In many colleges, the chances of getting admission through ED are slightly higher than ‘Regular Decision’.

What is the last date for ‘Early Action’ applications?

Students get more flexibility through ‘Early Action’ (EA). This is a good option for those students who want to take admission in many colleges, but are ready to take admission in any of them. he/she also wants a quick decision on his/her application whether he/she will be given admission or not. Many colleges that offer EA give students the opportunity to showcase their interests. They are allowed to apply to multiple colleges and compare financial aid.

What is the last date for ‘Regular Decision’ application?

‘Regular Decision’ (RD) is the standard way to apply to most colleges in the US. Under this, students are given enough time to prepare the application and take a thoughtful decision. The last date for RD is usually in early January. Students get ample time to build a strong profile, collect recommendation letters, and refine their essays.

This also gives students time to consider multiple options and compare financial aid packages before choosing a college. Unlike ‘Early Decision’ and ‘Early Action’, Regular Decision gives students time to consider all their options before choosing a college for admission.