You might have heard about EA and ED plans if you are an aspirant looking to pursue an abroad education. Nonetheless, you may not be aware of the intricate details of the subject plans. We are trying to clear the air by providing you with explanations on both, including the exact info on the pros and cons.
Don’t worry even if you dream of overseas education, but don’t have enough idea about EA and ED. This article would be useful for gaining adequate knowledge. Further, you can contact us if you want expert guidance on the study plans in USA universities. Our professional abroad educational consultants have extensive knowledge and experience to support you in the best possible way.
What is EA or Early Action?
Early Action, EA, indicates an admission application before the regular application schedule. The student can apply to the University of his or her choice if the documents, including certificates of educational qualification, are ready. This would help in gaining the attention of the competent authority in the university, who is approving the admissions. And would eventually improve the chances of admission.
At the same time, the student can choose to attend the university or not. The students can apply to as many universities as they want unless the specific university is not in the category of Restricted Early Action (REA).
The normal timing for EA is between November 01 and 15. Ensure that you have all the certificates and documents ready for applying in time.
What is ED or Early Decision?
ED is similar to EA, but it is compulsory to attend the university if you have been selected under the program. Those who are applying under ED are giving an assurance to the university that they would be attending the course without fail. However, ED doesn’t pose any limitation concerning the applications under EA. The students can apply simultaneously under the EA plan.
A few universities offer two phases of ED applications, viz. ED1 and ED2. ED1 applications are in November and ED2 applications normally occur in January. Regular admission applications can also be submitted during the ED2 admissions in January.
Merits and Demerits of EA
Let’s look into the merits and demerits of the EA admission plan. Nevertheless, you can overcome the disadvantages with the support of an experienced overseas education consultant.
| Merits | Demerits |
| The early application improves the possibility of admission | Time limitations may affect the application process |
| The admission officer would get enough time to go through your application and this would enhance the possibility of a positive decision | The CAT or ACT score has to be obtained and submitted early for EA admissions |
| You can expect a response prior to the commencement of Regular Admission | It may not be possible to submit first semester grades for senior year students |
| Enough time to prepare college essays | High probability of discrepancies and errors in the application since it is done in a short time |
Merits and Demerits of ED
ED also has merits and demerits. The demerits of ED are different from EA and those may not be problematic if you are sure about the university or school to study.
| Merits | Demerits |
| The number of admissions is higher in the case of ED | No option to choose another educational institution, once you get admitted to one |
| Advisable option if the student has confirmed the educational institution to study | No negotiations concerning fees package are possible |
| No need to approach several institutions and await the decision from the authority | Curtails the possibility of comparing the schools |
| You will get the info regarding the acceptance by December itself |
Our Verdict
Although it is the right way to obtain admission to abroad educational institutions, EA and ED plans may not be suitable for all. The students, who have extensive information regarding the universities, may go for EA or ED as convenient.
ED may not be the ideal option for the students facing ambiguities on the school to choose or the course program they prefer. Avoid applying to ED unless you are sure about the course, college and the program.
Our advice is to undertake thorough research about the educational institutions before going ahead with ED. It is the student’s choice whether to join the institution or not when he or she is selected according to the EA plan. Still, it may not be the right choice to apply under EA also, in case you are unsure about the course or college.
We can extend you the right guidance and support on choosing the course, and the college for applying under EA or ED plan. Contact us to discuss the plans and gain in-depth information about the process. We would be happy to help you.
Visit Sage Education Services for applying under EA or ED plans in the USA universities.