ED is binding—if admitted, you must enroll (and withdraw other apps). EA is non-binding—you apply and hear early but can compare offers before deciding.

SCEA (Single-Choice) or REA (Restrictive Early Action) is non-binding but limits where else you can apply early. Read each school’s fine print—some allow public EA or rolling elsewhere.

Usually yes if the ED school is not also SCEA/REA. If you apply SCEA/REA at a school, you may be restricted from other early plans. Always check each school’s policy.

Often, but the pool is self-selecting (well-prepared, hooked, recruited). Don’t choose ED for odds alone; be sure it’s your top affordable choice.

ED is binding only if the package is affordable. You may request a review, but you cannot compare offers across multiple schools like in RD. If price is critical, EA/RD provides more flexibility.

Many colleges extend fee-waiver options internationally via Common App/NACAC or their own form. Check the Fee Waiver link in the chart for each school’s rules and documents.

Common App typically refreshes on August 1 each year. You can create an account earlier, but new prompts and forms go live on the refresh date.

Some colleges allow a short grace window for recommendations, test scores, or portfolios. Submit the application by the deadline, then upload the remaining items as instructed.

Most portals accept submissions until 11:59 p.m. local time on the stated date (school or applicant time zone varies). Avoid the edge—submit 24–48 hours early to dodge traffic or tech issues.

Policies vary by school and sometimes by major or scholarship. Always check each college’s official testing policy via the Official link in the table.

Rolling schools review applications as they arrive and admit until seats fill. Applying early can improve scholarship timing, housing, and major access.

Frequently yes—priority or scholarship deadlines can be as early as Nov 1. Use each school’s scholarship page and apply earlier than RD when possible.

Arts, design, theatre, and music majors often require separate portfolio/audition timelines that may be earlier than the main deadline. See program pages linked from the school’s official site.

At schools offering ED II, you can often convert an RD application before the ED II deadline. You’ll sign the ED agreement and commit if admitted.

Typical windows: ED I/EA in December, ED II in late January/February, RD in March/early April. Exact dates vary—watch your portal and official updates.

Submit the application by your chosen plan and file FAFSA/aid forms as soon as they open, plus any institutional forms. Some merit/aid programs have earlier priority dates.