Early Action? Early Decision? What Parents Need to Know About Choosing the Right Deadlines

This is the fourth post in our summer series for families of the Class of 2026, leading up to the opening of the Common App on August 1. So far, we’ve covered how to set a budget, how to evaluate fit with clarity, and how to help your teen tune out peer pressure.

This week, we turn to a topic that can shape both your application strategy and your financial outcomes: deadlines.

The words "Early Action" and "Early Decision" get thrown around a lot—but most families misunderstand what they actually mean. And in a system this complex, that misunderstanding can come with real consequences.

What’s the Difference?

Here’s a clear breakdown of the most common deadline types your student will encounter:

Regular Decision (RD)

This is the standard timeline. Applications are typically due in January or February.

There’s no commitment. You apply, wait for decisions, compare offers, and make a final choice by May 1.

Best for: Students who want the most time—whether for additional coursework, test scores, or comparing financial aid.

Early Decision (ED)

This is a binding agreement. You apply early—usually in November—and if accepted, you are committed to attend. You can only apply to one ED school.

Best for: Students who have a clear, top-choice school and do not need to compare financial aid packages.

Important caveat: ED removes your ability to negotiate or compare aid offers. For most families, that trade-off isn’t worth it.

Early Action (EA)

You apply early (commonly by November 1 or 15), but the decision is not binding. You’ll typically receive your results in December, and you can still apply elsewhere.

Best for: Students who are organized and want to hear back early from a few favorite schools without locking themselves in.

Rolling Admission

Rolling Admission means the school reviews applications as they arrive and makes decisions on a rolling basis—often within a few weeks of submission. There's no fixed deadline, but applying earlier gives your student a better shot at admission and scholarships.

Best for: Students who want quick decisions, are applying later in the cycle, or want to keep an option in their back pocket.

Important nuance: Many rolling schools also have priority deadlines for scholarships or honors programs. Applying late may still be “on time,” but not “fully considered.”

How to Choose the Right Strategy

There is no one-size-fits-all answer—but there is a right answer for your student and your family. Here’s how to start narrowing it down.

1. Know how much flexibility you need.

If your family needs to compare financial aid packages—or if the student’s top-choice school is a financial stretch—Early Decision is probably not the right call. It eliminates the ability to walk away if the numbers don’t work.

2. Use Early Action to build momentum.

A well-timed EA acceptance can give your teen confidence going into the winter. Look for 2–

3 favorite schools that accept Early Action and have reasonable admissions odds. These are often great choices to apply to early.

3. Don’t apply ED just to end the process early.

Some students see ED as an escape hatch: one app, one answer, and done. But that can lead to serious regret if the school turns out to be a poor academic, financial, or personal fit. No decision this important should be rushed for the sake of relief.

4. Use Rolling Admission schools to reduce stress.

A few strong rolling schools can act as built-in safety nets. These are great for early feedback, scholarships, and peace of mind—especially if your teen’s confidence is shaky.

5. Review test score policies.

At some schools test-optional policies don’t apply to early deadlines. Make sure your student understands what is required at each school before choosing the application type.

6. Keep Early Action decisions in perspective.

If your student gets accepted to a solid EA school and the financial aid package is strong, you may be done. But if it’s not quite right, there’s still plenty of time to revise essays and apply Regular Decision elsewhere.

Final Thought: Early Isn’t Always Better

Applying early is often hyped as the “smart” choice. In reality, it’s only smart if it fits your student’s timeline, your family’s finances, and your overall admissions strategy.

Being thoughtful about deadlines is just as important as being early.

Next Week (July 28):The Common App Is About to Open. Here’s What Prepared Parents Are Doing This Week