College admissions is full of lingo. Especially when it comes to the different types of application options. If you're new to the application process, here are some useful definitions. Use this to post to jump start your research into each school, and weigh the pros and cons of each type of application.
Early Decision (ED): Applications are due in November and you get a decision in December. If you get in, it is a binding commitment. This means that you are required to attend the school. You can only apply to one school ED. When you're accepted you withdraw any other applications.
Early Decision II (EDII): Some schools have a second Early Decision deadline in January. The decision usually comes in February. ED II is also binding.
Early Action (EA): Applications are due in November and you get a decision in December. If you get in, you are not required to attend the school. It is not binding. You can apply to other schools.
Restrictive Early Action (REA): You apply early and get an answer early. The restrictive part usually means that you can only apply to one private EA school. You can apply to other schools for Regular Decision. If you get in, you are not required to attend the school.
Regular Decision: RD applications are typically due in January and you get an answer in March or April. These decisions are not binding.
Rolling Admissions: Schools review and make decisions on a continuous basis.
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