You may have heard that Early Decision rates are generally higher than Regular Decision rates. Or that up to 50% of a college's incoming class may be filled with early applicants. But is Early Decision right for your student? Here are some factors to consider:

• Early Decision (ED) is a binding application choice, meaning you are committed to a college should they accept you. Students may only apply to one college ED and must immediately withdraw all other applications if accepted.
• ED acceptance rates tend to be higher than Regular Decision rates--though the extent of this boost varies by college.
• If students haven't had time to visit or engage with all of the colleges on their list, committing too early in the process may lead to disappointment down the road. What a student wants during the summer before senior year is sometimes different the following May. Make sure that your "first choice" school really and truly is your first choice!
• Students without compelling test scores (if applicable) or a solid academic record may wish to have another semester of work under their belt before applying to college. Though smaller, the ED pool is often filled with the most competitive applicants. Ensure your application demonstrates your absolute best efforts--even if it means waiting a bit to submit.
• Finances are another factor to consider before applying ED, as you won't be able to compare financial aid/scholarship offers before making a decision. While many top colleges commit to meeting full need for all accepted students, "need" does not necessarily correlate to what a family is willing to pay. And for students without "demonstrated need" (as determined by FASFA/CSS Profile), the price for that ED acceptance letter may be a full-price tuition bill.

For highly motivated students who have a clear first-choice college, ED remains an attractive option that may boost your acceptance odds. But ED is only right for some, so consider all your choices (and factors) before signing those ED agreements!

Note: ED should not be confused with Early Action (EA), the non-restrictive application deadline.