Attention seniors! College applications are creeping up and they will wait for no one. Regular application deadlines may seem distant, but early action is right around the corner. Although early action can be intimidating (especially for those seniors that have yet to start their personal statements,) there are many inevitable benefits to applying sooner. Tulane’s Midwest representative, Keith Stanford, revealed that “less than one percent of out of state applicants that applied for regular deadlines were accepted.” This may seem shocking, but it is not uncommon. There is a correlation between early action and higher acceptance according to The College Board. It is advised that you call the admissions office of any prospective schools to inquire any preferences.

Early action is also recommended for rolling admission schools -universities that accept students just four to eight weeks after submitting the application- The sooner you hear back from schools, the more time you have to weigh your options and figure out financial aid, scholarships, and/or grants. “Applying early gives me time to know my status,” says Jalen Lewis’19. “I can make as many college visits as I want before May 1st so that I’m confident in my decision, it won’t be rushed.”  Some universities that employ rolling admission include: Arizona State University, Indiana University, Penn State, Michigan State, and University of Missouri.

So Whitney Young students, accelerating the college process is definitely worth consideration. Get started today!