The most common questions about Early Decision (ED) are: What is Early Decision exactly? How does ED differ from Early Action? What does “binding” mean?

Students interested in applying for Early Decision should know they can only apply to one Early Decision institution. If accepted, students are “bound” to attend. Students applying for ED can apply to other schools that have Early Action plans because Early Action schools are typically non-binding. If accepted to a school via ED, students must withdraw their Early Action and Regular Decision applications for other institutions.

We’re here to answer other frequently asked questions you may have about the upcoming Early Decision deadline.

Does Cornell offer Early Decision and/or Early Action?

Cornell offers an Early Decision application option for first-year students. The ED application deadline is November 1. Applicants are notified of Cornell’s decision in December.

Is Early Decision binding at Cornell?

Yes. It is important to remember that an Early Decision application is a commitment. You may apply ED to only one college or university, but ED applicants can apply to other non-binding early admission programs. If admitted to Cornell, you must withdraw any applications filed at other colleges or universities and send notice of commitment and the enrollment deposit in January. If you’re applying for financial aid, we strongly encourage you to submit your CSS Profile by your priority date so we’re able to provide you with a Cornell Aid Estimate.

Complete the 2024–25 CSS Profile as soon as possible (applications opened October 1, 2023), but no later than...

• Early Decision: November 1, 2023
• Regular Decision: January 2, 2024

What are the potential outcomes of an ED application to Cornell?

Once you apply ED to Cornell, you can be admitted, denied, or deferred into the Regular Decision review process.

If I am denied ED admission, can I apply for Regular Decision at Cornell?

No. If you have been denied admission as an ED applicant, you may not apply to Cornell University as a Regular Decision applicant.

When should I plan to take my SAT, Subject Tests, or ACTs if I’m applying for Early Decision?

For the 2023–2024 admission cycle, the colleges and schools within Cornell University are either score-free or test-optional. You can learn more about our test score policy here. If you are applying to a test-optional college or school, you can self-report your scores either through the Common App or through your applicant status page when it is available.

Do I need to complete the ED Agreement?

No, Cornell does not require the ED agreement form provided by the Common Application. On the Cornell University section of the Common Application, check Early Decision as your preferred admission plan.

Ready to apply? Learn more about our requirements on our website!