Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision

USF offers three options for applying on the Common Application. Here, we'll explain the differences between Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision so you can decide which is right for you.

Early Decision

Apply by: November 1
Get an admission decision by: December 1
Confirm your enrollment by: February 1

You'll be among the first applicants to receive an admission decision, and you'll also be the first to receive your financial aid offer (usually in January).

The important thing to know about Early Decision is that it is a binding agreement. That means that if you apply Early Decision and are admitted to USF, you agree to withdraw all other college applications and commit to attending USF.

Consider applying Early Decision if:

• USF is your first choice (yay!)
• USF is a solid match for you (academically, geographically, etc.)
• You have a strong academic record at the start of your senior year

If USF is one of your top choices but you want to hear back from other schools (or want to weigh other financial aid offers), you should consider Early Action.

Early Action

Apply by: November 1
Get an admission decision by: mid-December
Confirm your enrollment by: May 1

You'll also receive your financial aid offer early (usually in February).

Early Action is non-binding, which means that if you are admitted to USF, you still have several months to let us know whether or not you will attend.

Consider applying Early Action if:

• USF is one of your top choices, but you want to compare other admission or financial aid offers before making a final decision.
• You have a strong academic record at the start of your senior year

Regular Decision

Apply by: January 15
Get an admission decision by: mid/late March
Confirm your enrollment by: May 1

If you're admitted, you'll have over a month to let us know whether or not you will attend.

Consider applying Regular Decision if:

• You feel like you can submit a stronger application in January than in November
• You want to compare other admission or financial aid offers.