Admission Priority: How Does It Work?

I'm a bit confused about the concept of 'admission priority' in the college application process. Can someone explain what it means and how it affects our chances of being admitted? Are there any benefits to applying early?

Admission priority generally refers to the order in which applications are reviewed and considered by colleges during the admissions process. There are different application timelines, such as Early Decision (ED), Early Action (EA), and Regular Decision (RD), which can impact your chances of being admitted.

Early Decision is a binding application option, meaning if you're accepted, you commit to attending the college. Since colleges have a higher yield from ED applicants, they are more likely to admit a greater percentage of ED applicants than RD applicants. Applying ED could result in an average 1.6x (60%) increase in your chances of admission to highly selective schools compared to applying RD. However, keep in mind that these numbers vary by school and are just the data on average.

Early Action is a non-binding application option that allows you to apply early and receive an admission decision earlier than RD applicants. While EA doesn't have the same level of commitment as ED, applying EA still boosts your chances, but to a lesser extent since you're not obligated to attend if accepted.

Regular Decision is the standard application timeline without any priority considerations. Most applicants fall into this category, and colleges admit the majority of their incoming class from RD.

One benefit of applying early (ED or EA) is receiving an admission decision sooner, which can alleviate stress and allow for better college planning. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, applying ED or EA can boost your chances of being admitted, especially at highly selective institutions. However, be aware that applying ED comes with a binding commitment, so only apply ED if you're sure that the college is your top choice.

In conclusion, admission priority is the way admissions committees prioritize and review applications. Applying early (ED or EA) can offer some advantages in the admissions process, such as increased chances of being admitted and receiving decisions earlier. However, it's essential to consider the binding nature of ED and your financial situation before opting for an early application plan.