Is Early Decision for Me: Common Questions

What if I do not have a good score in time: For me, a decision to apply early would not come down to the SAT/ACT score if the college/university is test-optional (a recent survey of the National Association of College Professionals found that 84% of survey respondents said they plan to remain optional in the fall).

Ask each college/university you're applying to "How many students were admitted without a test score" . Also ask, "if I feel I am a good candidate but I do not have the score I want for the SAT/ACT should I apply early through test-optional?" Every college/university is different. Asking these questions gives you a good sense of where you stand.

The one thing I see a lot is people say Georgetown only admitted 7% of applicants without SAT/ACT scores.

True. But Georgetown is very different than every college, VERY DIFFERENT, and there were 7% of students that convinced Georgetown to give them a shot.

There are schools that are test-free (Berkely, UCLA, CalTech), there are schools were a majority of applicants accepted were accepted without scores.

College admissions is not a one-size-fits-all.

I have had students apply early decisions successfully without a SAT/ACT score. I had students apply early decision successfully with a SAT/ACT score. Every college is different.

What I would consider for early decision: Grades and class rigor. If you feel the last 3 years are a good representation for your student and senior year grades won't add that much to the picture, apply test-optional or with scores if you have them.

If your student is taking rigorous classes next year and wants to improve the GPA, and/or wants to prove themselves first and second semester then waiting for the regular pool may be a better option for you.
I have had students and parents rush only to be deferred or rejected. I have had students rush and pull it off and get in. It really is up to you and your student.

Apply when your student can put their best foot forward is some of the best advice I have received from admissions professionals.