Are you curious about the differences between Early Decision I and Early Decision II? If so, know that you’re not alone! Lots of parents and students navigating the elite college admissions process don’t fully understand the differences between these two policies. So, let’s dive in!

What is Early Decision I?

Early Decision is a binding admissions process allowing students to commit to attending a specific college upon receiving an acceptance offer. Typically, applications for Early Decision I are due by November 1st. You can only apply to one school through Early Decision (regardless of the type of Early Decision) at a time. Different colleges have varying policies, so it’s essential to research their specific requirements. And be careful not to get an ED policy confused for an Early Action one! It’s been known to happen!

What is Early Decision II?

Early Decision II offers students who need more time to prepare their applications or who chose to apply elsewhere via Early Decision I another opportunity to reap the benefits of committing to an institution. Applications can typically be submitted between January 1 and mid-January, depending on the school. As with Early Decision I, this option also requires a commitment to attend if accepted.

Best National Universities with Early Decision

Among the national universities ranked in the top 50 by US News & World Report in its 2025 college ranking, the following schools offer Early Decision policies:

College / University	2025 US News Rank (“Best National Universities”)
Duke University	#6
Johns Hopkins University	#6
Northwestern University	#6
University of Pennsylvania	#10
Cornell University	#11
University of Chicago	#11
Brown University	#13
Columbia University	#13
Dartmouth College	#15
Rice University	#18
Vanderbilt University	#18
Washington University in St. Louis	#21
Emory University	#24
University of Virginia	#24
New York University	#30
Boston College	#37
Tufts University	#37
Boston University	#41
Wake Forest University	#46

Best National Universities with Early Decision II

Among the national universities ranked in the top 50 by US News & World Report in its 2025 college ranking, the following schools offer Early Decision II policies:

College / University	2025 US News Rank (“Best National Universities”)
Johns Hopkins University	#6
University of Chicago	#11
Rice University	#18
Vanderbilt University	#18
Washington University in St. Louis	#21
Emory University	#24
New York University	#30
Boston College	#37
Tufts University	#37
Boston University	#41
Wake Forest University	#46

Understanding Early Decision I vs. Early Decision II for Students

Let’s parse through this seemingly insignificant difference in admissions policy to reveal why it should matter to you as you navigate your college admissions journey. Early Decision I (ED I) deadlines are typically in early November, with decisions announced in mid-December, allowing students to learn their status before submitting Regular Decision applications.

Conversely, Early Decision II (ED II) deadlines usually occur in early January, meaning ED II applicants submit their applications alongside Regular Decision ones. This results in a different pace for the application process, and naturally, different admissions consideration.

ED I and ED II From an Admissions Officer’s Perspective

From an admissions perspective, Early Decision I candidates often receive more lenient evaluations because the total applicant pool is still uncertain. Think of admissions officers as an insecure partner or coach who is more likely to excuse your shortcomings because no other options are yet on the table. By the time admissions officers review ED II applications, they have a clearer understanding of the overall applicant pool’s strength, leading to a more discerning evaluation process where students who had applied ED I would probably not have fared as well. Additionally, when students apply ED II, it’s presumed that they applied to another school ED I and didn’t get in. What school likes to be considered second fiddle?

ED I vs. ED II FAQ

Why Consider Applying Early Decision II?

Early Decision II offers a strategic opportunity for students who faced deferrals or rejections in Early Decision I, or for those who weren’t ready to commit by early November but feel prepared by early January.

Does Early Decision II Come with a Binding Commitment?

Like Early Decision I, Early Decision II comes with a binding commitment. If offered admission, students must enroll unless there’s a significant change in their financial circumstances.

What Are the Drawbacks of Early Decision II?

While both ED I and ED II indicate a binding commitment, ED I applications carry slightly more weight, as they reflect a more definitive commitment earlier on in the process. However, applying through ED II still demonstrates commitment, and admissions officers still prefer these applicants over Regular Decision applicants as they positively influence admissions yield, or the proportion of admitted students who end up enrolling. Another drawback of ED II is that students will have already had to submit Regular Decision applications to other universities (and they’ll need to withdraw those applications should they earn admission via ED II).

Is It Easier to Get Into a Top University Through Early Decision I or Early Decision II?

Applying through Early Decision I (ED I) generally offers a greater advantage than Early Decision II (ED II), according to admissions statistics from highly selective universities. Both options are typically more beneficial than applying during Regular Decision.

Why Do Some Admissions Officers Suggest There’s No Advantage in Applying Early Decision?

Some admissions officers may downplay the benefits of Early applications to ostensibly promote fairness, especially when it comes to concerns about the supposed privileged composition of the Early Decision.

But the reality is that the advantage lavished upon ED I students is entirely due to their timing and enthusiasm. While students from low-income backgrounds might hesitate to apply early due to financial concerns, they can use the Net Price Calculator to estimate aid before applying and assemble a clear picture of just what exactly they’re committing themselves to by applying in an Early round.

In other words, there’s no excuse not to take advantage of an Early Decision policy! While applying ED I will certainly put you in a more competitive position relative to applying ED II, both are preferable to simply throwing in the towel and applying Regular Decision.