How Early Action Applications Can Help You Get into College: What You Need to Know
Does applying early to college really help? Discover how Early Action can give you an edge in the admission process and help you make college plans sooner.
Early Action vs. Early Decision: What’s the Difference?
Before jumping into the college application process, it’s important to understand that there are two main types of early applications: Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED). While both give you the opportunity to apply to college sooner, there are some key differences.
- Early Action (EA): Early Action is nonbinding, which means that you can apply to multiple schools and are not required to commit to one right away. It allows you to receive your admission decision early—usually by December—without having to make your final choice until the regular decision deadline in the spring. This gives you the advantage of knowing where you stand, while still having flexibility in your decision-making process.
- Early Decision (ED): Early Decision is binding. If you apply through Early Decision and get accepted, you’re committing to attend that school, meaning you have to withdraw your applications from other colleges. Early Decision is ideal if you’re 100 percent sure about the school you want to attend and are ready to commit.
Both Early Action and Early Decision offer the benefit of hearing back from schools sooner, but Early Decision involves a bigger commitment, so it’s essential to carefully consider your options. Once you’ve decided which route to take, the next question is: why apply early at all? Whether you choose Early Action or Early Decision, applying ahead of the regular college application deadlines can have a significant impact on your chances of acceptance.
Why Applying Early to College Can Make a Big Difference
One of the biggest reasons to consider submitting an early application is that it can significantly improve your chances of getting into college. Colleges tend to admit a higher percentage of early applicants compared to those who apply during the regular decision period. In fact, for many competitive schools, your chances of being accepted can increase by up to 60 percent if you apply early. That’s a pretty big deal, especially for those aiming for highly selective institutions!
But why does this happen? It’s not just about numbers; colleges recognize that students who apply early are usually more serious about attending. When you submit your early college application, you’re signaling to admission officers that their school is one of your top choices. Schools like to admit students who are genuinely interested in attending, and applying early is one way to demonstrate that commitment.
It’s worth noting that the impact of applying early to college can vary depending on how selective the school is. For the most selective schools, the increase in acceptance rates can be more significant. For schools with higher acceptance rates, the difference might not be as pronounced, but it’s still worth considering.
Less Stress, More Time to Plan for College
One of the less obvious but incredibly valuable benefits of applying early to college is the reduced stress. If you apply early, you’ll receive your admission decision sooner—usually by December—which gives you more time to plan the rest of your senior year and beyond. Not only will you have a clearer idea of where you’ll be headed, but you’ll also free up mental space to focus on other important things.
Imagine wrapping up your college search in December. While other students are scrambling to submit their applications by regular college application deadlines, you’ll be able to focus on finishing strong in high school. You can take the time to enjoy your senior year, dive into extracurriculars, or even plan out your first semester at college.
For students who juggle many responsibilities—whether it’s maintaining a part-time job, staying active in clubs, or keeping up with classes—getting their college applications done early can be a huge relief.
Pro Tip:
Make sure your application is as polished as it can be before hitting submit. Double-check your personal statement, update your résumé, and ask for letters of recommendation early. Since the early application process gives you a bit of an edge, make sure your materials are strong to take full advantage of it.
Some Schools Offer Feedback on Your Application
One interesting aspect of the early application process is that some schools may provide feedback if they decide not to admit you early. This is more common at certain institutions, and it gives you the chance to strengthen your application before applying again in the regular decision round.
This feedback could include suggestions on how to improve your personal statement, where to focus academically, or how to make your application stand out. If you take their advice and make improvements, you might find yourself in a much stronger position when the regular admission decisions come around.
Faster Access to Scholarships and Financial Aid
Submitting an Early Action application can also help with financial aid and scholarships. Many schools offer priority consideration for financial aid to students who apply early. This means that if you submit your application early, you may have a better chance of landing scholarships or receiving a more favorable financial aid package.
However, keep in mind that the early application process may require you to make a decision about which school to attend before you’ve had a chance to compare financial aid offers from other institutions. While this can be a drawback, especially if you’re applying to multiple schools, the benefit of securing financial aid early can outweigh the downsides.
Pro Tip:
File your FAFSA and any school-specific financial aid forms as early as December 1st, 2024. Financial aid is often awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and you don’t want to miss out on opportunities for scholarships or grants.
More Time to Get Ready for College Life
One of the most exciting benefits of applying early to college is the head start you’ll have in preparing for life on campus. Once you’ve received an acceptance, you can shift your focus to the fun parts of college planning, like deciding where to live, what classes to take, what student organizations to join, and even what to pack for your dorm. The early application process allows you to spend more time researching your future school and getting ready for the big move.
If you’re planning to attend a school like St. John’s University, applying early gives you a leg up in exploring all that the campus—and New York City—has to offer. Whether you’re interested in academics, athletics, or extracurricular activities, having more time to plan can make the transition to college smoother and less stressful. Once you’ve submitted your early application, start thinking about how you’ll transition into college life. Schools often have resources and orientations for new students, so take advantage of these early to familiarize yourself with the campus and its offerings.
Are There Any Downsides to Applying Early?
While the benefits of applying early to college are hard to ignore, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, submitting an early application means making a decision sooner. If you’re still unsure about which school you want to attend or if you need more time to compare financial aid offers, the early application might feel a bit rushed.
Additionally, by applying early, you may not have the chance to compare multiple schools’ financial aid packages. This is something to weigh carefully if cost is a significant factor in your decision-making process. If you’re on the fence, make a pros and cons list for each school you’re considering. This can help you decide if applying early is the right choice for you or if waiting for regular decision is a better option.
St. John’s University Application Deadlines
If you’re considering applying to St. John’s University, knowing application deadlines is crucial. Each deadline comes with its own set of advantages, so choose the one that aligns best with your preparation timeline and goals. St. John’s offers several application options, each with its own deadline:
Early Action
The deadline for Early Action applications is December 1. This option allows you to receive an admission decision earlier and helps you plan your college experience ahead of time.
Regular Decision
The Regular Decision deadline is February 1. Applying by this date ensures you’ll still be considered for admission, though decisions will be released later than those for Early Action applicants.
Rolling Admissions
After February 1, St. John’s continues to accept applications on a rolling basis until the program reaches capacity.
Why Applying Early Sets You Up for Success
In the end, submitting an early application can offer a lot of benefits, from increasing your chances of getting into college, to helping you secure financial aid and reducing stress. The early college application process also gives you extra time to plan for your college experience, which can make all the difference when it comes to feeling prepared and excited for the next chapter of your life.
If you’re ready to take that next step and think St. John’s University might be the right fit, submitting your early application could be the smartest move you make in your college journey. The earlier you apply, the better positioned you’ll be for success.
Good luck with your application process, and remember to stay organized, stay positive, and trust the process!
Related Blog Posts
How Changing Majors Transformed My College Experience
Declaring a major can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure of your choice. Like many students, I selected a major without certainty and hit a few bumps. By my second year, I decided to change my major, which put me on the right track.
If you’re considering changing majors, don’t worry! With the right guidance, it’s easier than you think. Now, as a St. John’s University senior, I share how I successfully made the change and the campus resources that helped me.
College Room Decor Tips & Tricks: Insider Advice from Resident Students
Transforming your residence room into a cozy and functional space doesn’t have to be a challenge. In this guide, two St. John’s University resident students share expert tips on making the most of their spaces. From clever storage hacks to unique decor ideas, you’ll find practical suggestions to personalize your space and stay organized—whether you’re a first-year student or a seasoned upperclass student.
Top 5 Reasons for Transferring Colleges
Transferring colleges is a big decision. It’s not something to take lightly, as it involves a lot of planning, paperwork, and sometimes a change of scenery. For many students, though, transferring can be a positive and life-changing step, opening the door to new opportunities and a better college experience. Whether you’re debating on transferring colleges due to academic, social, or personal reasons, it’s important to understand the key motivations behind such a decision.
Let’s take a look at the top five reasons why students transfer colleges and how to navigate the process successfully.
The First-Generation Student Advantage: What Sets You Apart?
What does being the first in your family to attend college mean? For many, it’s about breaking barriers and stepping into new opportunities. First-generation college students, especially those studying outside of their home country, bring unique strengths and perspectives that make their journeys one of a kind.
In this blog, we explore what it means to be an international, first-generation student and hear directly from those leading the way, sharing their experiences and the advantages they’ve discovered.
Six Reasons Why International Students Love Studying in the USA
In the 2023–24 academic year, more than one million international students chose the United States of America (USA) as their destination for higher education. What draws them to the USA? Here are six compelling reasons why studying in America could be the transformative experience for which you’ve been searching!
