College Admissions Language & Terminology
COMMONAPP
Web-based platform to simplify applying to college
EARLY DECISION (ED)
A decision option that requires students enroll in that school if admitted. Legally-binding
EARLY ACTION (EA)
A decision option that allows students to apply early and hear back early. Non-binding.
REGULAR DECISION (RD)
Last available deadline and decisions are typically released In March-April.
ROLLING ADMISSION
No hard deadline. Decisions are released on a continual basis.
DEFERRED ADMISSION
Applied EA or ED and the school sees potential but wants to see more. Ex. 1st semester grades.
WAITLIST
Applied and the school may admit you if there is space available.
TEST-OPTIONAL
Students can submit SAT/ACT scores only if they want
TEST-BLIND
The school will not review SAT/ACT scores even II student submits them.