Early Decision 2: What It Is and Why It Matters in College Applications

Applying to colleges can be an overwhelming process filled with crucial decisions that impact your future. Among these choices is selecting when and how to apply to your preferred colleges. Many high school students are familiar with Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) application options, but a lesser-known option, Early Decision 2 (ED II), often gets overlooked. Here, we will delve into what Early Decision 2 is, why it is important, how it can help during the application process, and which top colleges offer it.

What is Early Decision 2?

Early Decision 2 is similar to the traditional Early Decision application in that it is binding; if you are accepted, you are committed to attending that school. However, unlike the initial Early Decision (often referred to as ED I), ED II typically has a later application deadline—usually in early to mid-January, around the same time as Regular Decision deadlines.

This later deadline provides students with additional time to improve their academic profiles, finalize standardized test scores, complete extracurricular projects, or solidify their college preferences. Like ED I, ED II applicants receive their admissions decisions earlier than Regular Decision applicants, generally by February.

 Why is Early Decision 2 Important?

1. Increased Admission Chances: Colleges often have a higher acceptance rate for ED applicants compared to those who apply during Regular Decision. By applying ED II, you demonstrate a strong commitment to attending that particular college, which can work in your favor, especially for schools that value demonstrated interest.

2. Second Chance for Binding Admissions: For students who may have been deferred or rejected in the ED I round, ED II offers another opportunity to make a binding commitment to a top-choice school. If a student wasn’t ready to commit or wasn’t accepted in the ED I round, ED II can provide a crucial second chance.

3. More Time to Improve Your Application: Unlike ED I, which typically has a deadline in early November, ED II gives students a couple of additional months to boost their grades, secure better letters of recommendation, strengthen their essays, and enhance their overall application. This flexibility can be beneficial for students who were unsure about their ED I choices or wanted more time to prepare a strong application.

4. Demonstrated Interest: Colleges want to admit students who are genuinely excited to attend. By choosing the binding ED II option, you demonstrate to the college that they are your top choice. This can improve your chances of acceptance and shows the admissions committee a high level of enthusiasm and intent.

How Does ED II Help During the Application Process?

1. Clarifies Your College Choice: ED II gives students a bit more time to reflect on their top-choice school, ensuring that they are making a fully informed decision about committing to attend if accepted.

2. Early Notification: Just like ED I, ED II applicants receive their decisions earlier than Regular Decision applicants, typically within a few weeks of the application deadline. This earlier notification helps reduce the anxiety of waiting for decisions and allows students to plan for the next steps, including financial aid and housing arrangements.

3. Less Stress Compared to Regular Decision: With a potentially higher acceptance rate and an earlier notification timeline, ED II reduces the stress and uncertainty often associated with the highly competitive Regular Decision pool.

4. Demonstrates Seriousness: Applying ED II communicates your commitment and enthusiasm to admissions officers. For many colleges, this level of dedication can positively influence the final admissions decision.

Top Colleges That Offer Early Decision 2

Numerous highly regarded institutions offer an ED II option, including but not limited to:

1. New York University (NYU),

2. Vanderbilt University,

3. Emory University,

4. Tufts University,

5. Boston University,

6. Swarthmore College,

7. Bowdoin College,

8. Wesleyan University,

9. University of Chicago,

10. Wake Forest University, and many others

Before applying through ED II, it is important to thoroughly evaluate your interest in the school and your readiness to commit. Since ED II is binding, withdrawing from other college applications becomes necessary upon acceptance, and you must attend that institution unless financial aid arrangements cannot be met. Additionally, you should work closely with your school counselor to ensure all materials are submitted on time.

Early Decision 2 offers an excellent opportunity for students who are ready to make a binding commitment but need a little extra time to prepare their application. By choosing ED II, you can potentially increase your chances of acceptance, solidify your college choice, and demonstrate your dedication to your preferred institution. For students who are confident about their top-choice school but missed the ED I window, ED II can be a game-changer in the college admissions process.