Understanding Early Action and Early Decision

Applying to multiple colleges for early action or early decision is a common topic among high school seniors and college applicants. However, the rules and regulations surrounding these programs can be complex. This article aims to clarify the guidelines and potential consequences of applying to more than one college for early action or early decision.

What is Early Action?

Early Action (EA) is a form of admission where students apply to a college before the regular decision application deadline, but there is no binding commitment to attend if admitted. Students may submit applications to as many schools as they wish with the same EA designation, as long as the application guidelines for each school are followed.

Restrictive Early Action (REA)

Restrictive Early Action (REA) is more specific in that students can only apply to one school with this designation, but it is still non-binding. The key difference is that students must agree that if they are admitted, they will enroll in that specific college or university.

Early Decision (ED)

Early Decision (ED) is a binding commitment. When a student applies under ED, they agree to attend the college if offered admission, regardless of any other offers they may receive. It is not possible to apply to two colleges using ED, as it is a binding agreement for one school.

The Implications of Breaking the Rules

Breaking the rules of early action or early decision can have severe consequences. When a student violates the terms of a REA and applies to more than one school, it is seen as a breach of trust. Here are the potential ramifications:

You are giving your word that this is the only early application you will make. If you break this agreement, it shows a lack of integrity and trustworthiness.

Your school counselor may not write two sets of early recommendation letters, which can negatively impact your applications.

The Common Application portal may flag your behavior, leading to scrutiny from admission officers.

If you manage to get into an REA school despite breaking the rules, your admission may be rescinded.

It is essential to act responsibly and respect the terms of early application programs.

Consequences of Violating Early Application Terms

If you apply to multiple colleges for early action and are caught, the consequences can be severe:

Every university has heard of the Internet and has the ability to find out about your actions. Applying ED to multiple colleges can result in rejection from all the schools you have applied to.

These schools will learn that you have violated the terms of their early application programs. This can lead to permanent bans from applying to those schools in the future.

The admission process is taken very seriously, and dishonesty can result in immediate expulsion if discovered.

Conclusion

It is crucial for students to understand the rules and implications of applying to multiple colleges for early action or early decision. Violating these rules not only affects your current applications but can also have long-term consequences. It is always best to proceed with honesty and integrity to secure the best possible outcomes in the college application process.