Free Tool
Early Decision Advantage Calculator
Pick a college to see how much applying Early Decision improves admission odds — its real ED admit rate next to its overall rate, plus how much of the class ED fills. Built from 93 schools' published Common Data Sets.
Only colleges that offer Early Decision and report applicant and admit counts in their Common Data Set appear here. Coverage expands as more schools' data is added.
Choose a college above to see its Early Decision advantage — the ED admit rate, how it compares to the overall rate, and the share of the class ED fills.
How to Think About Early Decision
Before You Commit
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Only Apply ED to a True First Choice
Early Decision is a binding commitment. Only apply ED to the one school you would attend over every other option.
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You Commit Before Seeing Aid
You accept before you can compare financial-aid offers. If cost is a deciding factor, weigh that against the admissions boost.
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The Edge Is Real but Not Magic
A higher ED admit rate partly reflects a stronger, more committed applicant pool — not only a thumb on the scale.
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Have a Regular-Decision Backup Plan
If deferred or denied, you will apply elsewhere in the regular round. Keep that list ready before ED results arrive.
