Applying to college can be stressful, but it's important to know you have options when it comes to deadlines. You can always wait for the regular admission deadline, whether it's in January, February or even May. The November 1st early decision and early action deadline is not your only choice. Colleges set different application deadlines for reasons like processing time and financial aid deadlines. But generally, November 1st is for early decision and early action, while regular decision deadlines come later, some as late as May. Even if you miss the November 1st deadline, you still have time to apply for regular admission. 

What is Early Decision and Early Action?

When you apply to college during your senior year of high school, you have until January 1 for regular admission deadlines at many colleges. Other schools have even later deadlines in February, March, April or May. With regular admission, you'll typically hear back by April. Early decision and early action allow students to apply earlier and find out if they are accepted sooner. With early decision or early action, you can apply by November 1st and hear back as early as January or February. According to College Board, about 450 colleges and universities nationwide offer early decision or early action.

The Difference Between Early Decision and Early Action

There’s an important difference between early decision and early action. Early decision is binding - if you are accepted, you must attend that school or withdraw all other applications. Early action is non-binding - you can apply early and decline your acceptance if you get a better offer later. With early action, you aren't committing to anything upfront if you get in.

Some Schools Offer Direct Admission

Certain colleges have direct admission partnerships with high schools, so students are admitted without needing to apply separately. For example, Blinn College in Texas has direct partnerships with several high schools. Eligible seniors are directly admitted to Blinn upon high school graduation. Direct admission programs simplify the application process, but may have GPA requirements or other eligibility criteria. 

November 1st Doesn't Work for Everyone

Not every student needs or should apply early to college. If you need to improve grades first semester of senior year, wait for regular admission deadlines. For most schools, that's January 1 or later rather than November 1. The extra time can help you finalize your school list without a last-minute rush.

The November 1st early decision and early action deadline provides an option to reduce senior year stress, but it isn't your only choice. You can always wait and apply by the regular admission deadline, whether it's in January, February or even May.