What is the difference between regular decision, early action, and early decision?

Hey guys, I'm a junior, and I've been researching the college application process. I came across regular decision, early action, and early decision, but I'm not sure what the differences are between them. Can someone explain these to me? Thanks in advance!

Hi there! I understand that the college application process can be confusing, especially when it comes to the different application timelines. Let me break it down for you:

1. Regular Decision: This is the most common application deadline. Students typically submit their applications around January, and colleges will notify them of their admission decisions around March or April. If accepted, students have until May 1st to commit to a college.

2. Early Action (EA): Early action allows students to apply to colleges earlier than the regular decision deadline, usually around November. The advantage of EA is that you'll receive your admission decision earlier, often in December or January. However, EA is non-binding, meaning if you're accepted, you're not obligated to attend that college and can still consider other options.

3. Early Decision (ED): Similar to early action, early decision also has an early application deadline. The major difference is that ED is binding. If you're accepted through ED, you're committed to attending that college and must withdraw any other applications you've submitted.

I hope this helps clarify the differences! Good luck with your college applications!