Dec 6, 2025
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By Justin Neiman, Former Ivy League Admissions Officer
If your Early Action or Early Decision results didn’t go the way you hoped, you’re not alone. December is a tough month for many students. A deferral or rejection can feel like you’ve run out of options, but that isn’t always true. Early Decision II (ED2) gives you another chance to make a binding commitment to a school you’re excited about, and for some students, it can be a smart strategy.
Still, ED2 isn’t the right move for everyone. Here’s how to know whether it makes sense for you.
ED2 works almost the same way as ED1. You apply early, receive a decision before most Regular Decision applicants, and agree to attend if admitted. For schools that offer it, ED2 allows you to show strong interest later in the cycle. It can be appealing if:
• you were deferred or rejected from your first-choice early school
• you discovered a college that feels like a better fit
• your application is stronger now (new awards, better grades, higher test scores)
• you want to increase your chances at a school you already like
But before you commit to a binding round again, take time to think through what ED2 means.
Choosing ED2 should be thoughtful, not rushed. These questions can help you figure out whether it’s the right move:
• Does this school offer the academic programs I care most about?
• Does the campus culture match what I want socially and academically?
• Do I see myself growing here for four years?
• Would I be happy committing to this school if admitted?
If the answer to most of these is yes, ED2 may be worth serious consideration.
Some students really do benefit from applying ED2. It can make sense if:
ED2 is binding, so it’s not a tool to use lightly. It might not be the right option if:
• you’re unsure about the school
• you want to compare financial aid offers
• you feel pressure to “just pick something” after a disappointing result
There’s no advantage in submitting a binding application to a school you don’t genuinely want to attend.
You don’t need ED2 to get into a great college. Every year, students who feel discouraged in December end up with strong outcomes in March. If you decide to apply ED2, do it because the school truly feels right — not because you’re afraid of what comes next.
If you’re leaning toward ED2, spend time researching programs, reading student blogs, and understanding what makes each college unique. A thoughtful choice can make a real difference.
ED2 can be an opportunity, but only when used intentionally. Take a breath, step back from the stress of early results, and focus on finding the school where you’ll grow — not just the school that seems like a quick solution.
If you’d like support with your Essays, ED2 Application or Regular Decision Applications, feel free to reach out.
If your Early Action or Early Decision results didn’t go the way you hoped, you’re not alone. December is a tough month for many students. A deferral or rejection can feel like you’ve run out of options, but that isn’t always true. Early Decision II (ED2) gives you another chance to make a binding commitment to a school you’re excited about, and for some students, it can be a smart strategy.
Still, ED2 isn’t the right move for everyone. Here’s how to know whether it makes sense for you.
ED2 works almost the same way as ED1. You apply early, receive a decision before most Regular Decision applicants, and agree to attend if admitted. For schools that offer it, ED2 allows you to show strong interest later in the cycle. It can be appealing if:
• you were deferred or rejected from your first-choice early school
• you discovered a college that feels like a better fit
• your application is stronger now (new awards, better grades, higher test scores)
• you want to increase your chances at a school you already like
But before you commit to a binding round again, take time to think through what ED2 means.
Choosing ED2 should be thoughtful, not rushed. These questions can help you figure out whether it’s the right move:
• Does this school offer the academic programs I care most about?
• Does the campus culture match what I want socially and academically?
• Do I see myself growing here for four years?
• Would I be happy committing to this school if admitted?
If the answer to most of these is yes, ED2 may be worth serious consideration.
Some students really do benefit from applying ED2. It can make sense if:
ED2 is binding, so it’s not a tool to use lightly. It might not be the right option if:
• you’re unsure about the school
• you want to compare financial aid offers
• you feel pressure to “just pick something” after a disappointing result
There’s no advantage in submitting a binding application to a school you don’t genuinely want to attend.
You don’t need ED2 to get into a great college. Every year, students who feel discouraged in December end up with strong outcomes in March. If you decide to apply ED2, do it because the school truly feels right — not because you’re afraid of what comes next.
If you’re leaning toward ED2, spend time researching programs, reading student blogs, and understanding what makes each college unique. A thoughtful choice can make a real difference.
ED2 can be an opportunity, but only when used intentionally. Take a breath, step back from the stress of early results, and focus on finding the school where you’ll grow — not just the school that seems like a quick solution.
If you’d like support with your Essays, ED2 Application or Regular Decision Applications, feel free to reach out.
Former Admissions Officer, Harvard University
Former Assistant Dean, Stanford University
As a College Counselor I help students navigate the college admissions process. My goal is to help students stand out and get accepted to their top-choice schools.
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