What is 'Applied ED'?

Hi guys! I've seen the term 'applied ED' being used around here, but I'm not quite sure what it means. Can anyone explain what 'applied ED' refers to and how it impacts the college application process?

Hello! "Applied ED" refers to a student submitting their college application under the Early Decision (ED) plan. Early Decision is a type of application timeline offered by many colleges and universities, where you apply by an earlier deadline (usually in November) and receive your admission decision earlier as well (typically by mid-December).

The key aspect that sets ED apart from other application options is that it is a binding agreement. If you are accepted to a college under the ED plan, you are committed to attending that school and must withdraw all other college applications you may have submitted. Due to this commitment, students can only apply to one college under the Early Decision plan.

Applying ED can have a few advantages, including a potentially higher chance of being accepted, as colleges often have higher acceptance rates during the ED round. This is because students who apply ED are demonstrating a strong interest in the school, and the college can be confident about the applicant's intent to enroll if accepted, which helps the college's yield.

However, there is a potential disadvantage, as you commit to attending the college if accepted under ED, which may limit your opportunity to compare financial aid offers from different schools. So, it is crucial to only apply ED to a college that is your top choice and where you feel confident that the financial aid offered would be sufficient for your needs.

Overall, "applied ED" indicates that a student has submitted their application under the Early Decision plan, which may impact their chances of admission and the timeline of their college application process.