Planning your Application Strategy
Here’s the simple difference between the different types of applications you can make to US colleges:
- Early Action (EA):
– You apply early.
– Colleges give you a decision sooner.
– You’re not bound to attend.
– You can apply EA to multiple schools.
- Early Decision (ED):
– You apply early.
– Colleges reply early.
– If accepted, you must attend.
– You can apply ED to only one school.
- Regular Decision (RD):
– Standard application deadline.
– Decision comes in spring.
– No binding commitment.
– You can apply RD to many schools.
Here’s the simple difference between the different types of applications you can make to US colleges:
- Early Action (EA):
– You apply early.
– Colleges give you a decision sooner.
– You’re not bound to attend.
– You can apply EA to multiple schools.
- Early Decision (ED):
– You apply early.
– Colleges reply early.
– If accepted, you must attend.
– You can apply ED to only one school.
- Regular Decision (RD):
– Standard application deadline.
– Decision comes in spring.
– No binding commitment.
– You can apply RD to many schools.
You can apply to just one college Early Decision. It’s a binding commitment – if you get in, you’re expected to attend. So, pick your ED school carefully!
With Early Action (EA), you can apply to multiple colleges. There’s no limit. It’s non-binding, so you’re free to apply to as many as you want. But remember, always focus on quality over quantity. Make each application count!
College applications take time – if you think you’re going to rush them, you’re wrong. A good application can take 8-10 hours per essay, accounting for the pre-research, writing and re-writing, editing and proofreading.
An admissions officer receives 1000s of applications per seat they have; so if you’re going to make the cut you have to write an impressive essay which will catch their eye.
We suggest dividing up your college list strategically, such that you have a few Dream Colleges – the ones you really really want to get into; more than a few Realistic Colleges – the ones you know you’re likely to make it to and then a couple Safety Colleges – this ensures you’ve got some admissions for sure.
Let’s understand this bifurcation of colleges better:
- Dream Colleges: These are your “wow” schools. They’re tough to get into. Think big names, top programs. But they’re your favorites. Why aim for them? Because they can be life-changers. If you get in, it’s a dream come true. You’ve got to try, right? Pick 3-4 Dream Colleges at most.
- Realistic Colleges: These are your solid matches. They fit your grades, test scores, and activities. Why pick them? They’re in your league, and you’ve got a good shot. It’s like playing a game where you know you can compete and possibly win. Smart choice. Pick 3-4 Realistic Colleges.
- Safety Colleges: These are your backups. Pretty sure you’ll get in. Why include them? It’s your safety net. If things don’t go as planned elsewhere, you’ve still got a great place to go. It’s like having an extra life in a game – just in case. Pick 2-3 Safety Colleges.
Each type is crucial. Dream schools for ambition, realistic for a strong shot, and safety for security. Make your list balanced. That’s how you win the college application game. Go for it!
Anand Nizamkar
Received a ₹ 1.5 crore scholarship to prestigious New York University
Formerly a student of Little Flower Junior College, Hyderabad
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Anand Nizamkar
Received a ₹ 1.5 crore scholarship to prestigious New York University
Formerly a student of Little Flower Junior College, Hyderabad
