The process of applying to college is fraught with uncertainty. There are so many questions: What school should I apply to? Should I take the SAT or ACT? Early decision or Regular decision?

For most students, the answer to the last question is easy: regular decision. Applying early decision is a gamble that rarely pays off, unless you are overqualified for the school you're applying to. Here's a closer look at early decision vs. regular decision, and why applying through regular decision is almost always the best choice.

What Is Early Decision?

Early Decision is a binding agreement between a student and a university that requires the student to attend that university if they are accepted. In order to apply Early Decision, students must submit their applications by November (compared to the January deadline for Regular Decision).

Early Decision can be appealing because it allows students to get their applications in early and receive a decision earlier than those who apply through Regular Decision. However, there are several reasons why this isn't always the best choice.