Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) plans allow you to apply early (usually in November) and get an admissions decision well in advance of the usual spring notification date (usually by December). The differences between ED and EA vary by college.

Basically, ED plans are binding. By applying ED, you are agreeing to attend the college if it accepts you. EA plans are not binding. If you’re accepted, you can choose to commit to the college immediately, or wait until spring and weigh your options.

If you’re absolutely 100% sure of the school you want to go to, applying early is a nice way to save the time and expense of submitting multiple applications. Sometimes, students who apply under these plans have a better chance of acceptance than they would through the regular admissions process. However, it may be beneficial to wait for your senior fall semester grades to come in to improve your application.

It’s also important to find out whether the dance department of your chosen school requires an audition and, if so, what the procedure for Early Decision/Action auditions is. (Many schools request that dance majors send in applications early, anyway, so that they’ll already be admitted in time for auditions.)

Never assume that all early application processes are created equal, and double-check everything on your chosen school’s admissions page.