Dec 6, 2025
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By Justin Neiman, Former Ivy League Admissions Officer
When Early Action or Early Decision results don’t go the way you hoped, it’s normal to feel stuck. The good news is that Early Decision II (ED2) can give you another real chance to show a school you’re ready to commit. Many colleges offer an ED2 round with a February decision date, and applying to one of these schools can be a smart move if you’ve found a strong fit.
Below are ten ED2 options that students consistently consider after receiving a deferral or rejection. These schools are popular because they offer a mix of strong academics, clear strengths in certain fields, and a meaningful boost for students who apply in a binding round.
Your ED2 choice should be driven by fit, not panic. Here are a few questions to help guide the decision:
• 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 these questions is yes, ED2 can be a meaningful opportunity.
Many ED2 schools set deadlines that differ from Regular Decision, so make sure you keep track of the correct dates to avoid missing an opportunity.
Getting deferred or rejected doesn’t mean your story is over. Many students go on to receive great news during the regular round, and ED2 is just one possible path forward. What matters most is staying focused, staying grounded, and making thoughtful decisions from here.
If you’d like support with your Essays, ED2 Application or Regular Decision Applications, feel free to reach out.
When Early Action or Early Decision results don’t go the way you hoped, it’s normal to feel stuck. The good news is that Early Decision II (ED2) can give you another real chance to show a school you’re ready to commit. Many colleges offer an ED2 round with a February decision date, and applying to one of these schools can be a smart move if you’ve found a strong fit.
Below are ten ED2 options that students consistently consider after receiving a deferral or rejection. These schools are popular because they offer a mix of strong academics, clear strengths in certain fields, and a meaningful boost for students who apply in a binding round.
Your ED2 choice should be driven by fit, not panic. Here are a few questions to help guide the decision:
• 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 these questions is yes, ED2 can be a meaningful opportunity.
Many ED2 schools set deadlines that differ from Regular Decision, so make sure you keep track of the correct dates to avoid missing an opportunity.
Getting deferred or rejected doesn’t mean your story is over. Many students go on to receive great news during the regular round, and ED2 is just one possible path forward. What matters most is staying focused, staying grounded, and making thoughtful decisions from here.
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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