Application Deadline Terminology

RD? REA? ED? College acronym deadlines have you confused?

Colleges and Universities use a variety of acronyms when it comes to application deadline terminology. It is important to understand the differences to achieve the desired application. Please note that not every school offers each type of application deadline.

Early Decision "ED"

Early Decision is a binding contract with the college. Students agree to attend the school they have designated as Early Decision if they are accepted. ED is perfect for students who are 100% committed to one particular school. This student has done extensive research on the program they are interested in, visited the campus, considered finances, and had an interview. Typically, ED application deadlines are November 1st, with notification of results sent out in mid-December. Once accepted to the school, the student must withdraw all other applications.

Early Action "EA"

Early Action is a nonbinding deadline with the college or university. A student can apply to more than one college as an EA candidate. This student has researched the school, visited the campus, and is highly interested in attending. Of note, EA deadlines can affect merit aid awards, so check with your schools if this is an option. Typically, EA application deadlines are November 1, 15, or 30, with notification of results sent out in December or January.

Restricted Early Action "REA" and Single Choice Early Action "SCEA"

REA & SCEA schools offer this non-binding early admission deadline but require that you only apply to one school (their own) Early Action. Please note that few schools offer this application deadline. Typically REA and SCEA deadlines and notifications are similar to EA timeframes.

Priority Deadlines

Priority Deadlines are akin to the Early Action timeframe. Students can apply to many schools via priority deadlines since it is non-binding. Similar to EA, priority deadlines can affect merit awards, so check with your schools if this is a possible application deadline.

Regular Decision "RD"

Regular Decision is the standard admission deadline. It is also the last possible time a student can apply. Typically, RD deadlines are in January or later, and notifications of decisions are released between mid-March and early April.

Rolling Admission

Rolling Admission is a policy where specific due dates are not considered. Colleges process applications as soon as all credentials are received, and admissions decisions are made within 4 to 6-weeks.