November 7, 2025 • 15 mins
We trace how early action and early decision are reshaping East Coast admissions, from first reads and yield strategy to essays that carry more weight than ever. Clear steps help students choose fit, plan for deferrals, and protect mental health while parents support progress.
• monthly deep dive format and purpose
• record early application surges and competitiveness
• EA flexibility vs ED commitment and yield
• test optional shifts and when to submit scores
• what first reads look for and how committees decide
• data showing more seats filled early
• how essays, recommendations, and cohesion differentiate
• practical strategy for deferrals and updates
• guidance for students to apply with intention
• guidance for parents to support calmly
• student story highlighting resilience and craft
• new scholarship, magazine, coaching, and partnerships
• closing perspective on fit, wellbeing, and patience
If you reach out and mention the code podcast20, you'll receive the 20% off on any of our programs or packages this month
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Call us at (212) 931-6198 or Email us: admissions@eastcoastadmissions.com
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
SPEAKER_00 (01:06):
Hello and welcome back to the East Coast College
Admissions podcast.
I am your host, Cleopatra, andI'm so excited to kick off this
new chapter with you.
If you've been listening for awhile, you'll notice something
new.
SPEAKER_01 (01:20):
From here on out, we are doing monthly deep dive
episodes.
Longer, more thoughtful, anddesigned to give you real
insight into what's happening incollege admissions.
Especially here on the EastCoast.
Think of it as your monthlybriefing, real trends, real
data, and honest conversationsto help you make smart,
(01:44):
confident decisions.
So the early decision and earlyaction weight is officially
underway.
And wow, what a season it's beenshaping up to be.
Every year around this time, Isay the same thing.
This is the most competitivecycle we've seen here.
And every year, that turns outto be true.
(02:04):
We are seeing record-breakingearly applicant numbers at
nearly every major East Coastuniversity.
The University of Virginia,Northeasting, and Tata have all
reported surges in earlyapplications, many surpassing
pre-pandemic levels.
Why are so many studentsapplying early?
There are a few key reasons.
(02:26):
Point number one, pressure andperception.
There is a belief that applyingearly boosts your odds.
And while that's often true, itdepends on where and how you
apply.
The other point is strategy.
Some students apply early toshow demonstrated interest or
lock in into a top choiceschool.
(02:47):
And last but not the least,financial clarity.
For some families, earlydecisions bring in earlier
financial aid estimates.
But this year feels different.
More students than ever aretesting the waters with early
action, and fewer are committingto binding early decisions
unless they are truly sure offit and affordability.
(03:08):
But let's talk about the trendsI'm seeing right now across the
East Coast admissions officesand from my own student
experiences.
First, the bar is really, reallyhigh.
We are seeing more students with4.0 GPAs, strong test scores,
and leadership experiences thanever.
For admissions officers, thatmeans differentiation is
(03:30):
happening in the details.
Essays, recommendations, andoverall the cohesiveness across
student applications.
Second, test optional policiesare still in play, but strategy
also matters.
Some East Coast institutionslike MIT and Dartmouth have
reinstated test requirements.
Others remain test optional, butsubtly emphasizing that strong
(03:54):
scores can still enhance anapplication.
What we are also seeing is thatearly action is the saverly
round.
Students are applying earlyaction to strong colleges that
allow flexibility.
Places like Northeastern, UMD,and Boston University.
Early decision, on the otherhand, is becoming more targeted,
used mainly by students who havea clear first choice and solid
(04:18):
financial backing.
Last but not the least, essaysare doing more of the heavy
lifting now.
When everyone basically looksthe same academically, the essay
is what moves an applicant fromqualified to compelling.
Schools want dimension and notperfection.
Let's go inside the earlyreading role.
You know, I've worked on bothsides of the table, and let me
(04:40):
paint the picture for you.
In early November, teams ofadmissions officers, especially
on the East Coast, are alreadyin what we call the first read
stage.
That means every essay, everyrecommendation, every activity
list is being read quickly butcarefully.
They are looking for SPARK.
Think about academic alignment,school contribution, and the
(05:04):
story, why the student.
At many colleges, a student'sapplication is read by two
regional officers.
If they agree, it goes tocommittee.
If not, it is debated.
In early decision, because it'sbinding, those decisions carry
more weight.
Admissions teams know thataccepting you means you are
(05:24):
going to enroll.
And that shapes the yieldstrategy.
So while early decision doesstatistically raise your
chances, it also raisesexpectations.
They want to see certainty,maturity, and fit.
So now let's talk about data.
Okay.
Last year, the University ofPennsylvania failed over 50% of
(05:46):
its incoming class from theearly decision round.
Duke admitted more than 800students through early decision.
That's half of its class.
Northeast's early action pooljumped 25% in one year.
This means one thing.
The majority of available sportsare being filled really early.
(06:08):
That's why applying in regulardecision now feels harder.
Not because students are lessqualified, but because there are
simply fewer seats left.
But don't let that discourageyou.
Use it to inform your strategy.
If you're applying for earlyaction or early decision, here
is what matters most.
Point number one being that youhave to show institutional fit.
(06:32):
Don't recycle essays.
Show them you've done yourhomework.
Reference professors, programs,or values that align with your
goals.
Point number two, advisedofficers can tell when you're
trying too hard to soundimpressive.
They prefer students who soundclear about who they are and
what they want.
Point number three, be realisticabout early decision.
(06:55):
If financial aid is a concern,don't feel pressured into a
binding decision.
There are amazing regulardecision opportunities waiting
for you.
And last but not the least, planfor deferral.
A deferral isn't a soft no, it'sa naughty.
Students who write strong updateletters maintain grades and add
(07:18):
meaningful progress often moveoff wait list later.
What does this all mean forstudents and parents in the
middle of the process?
Well, for students, you have tobe intentional.
Don't apply early just becauseeveryone else is.
Make sure your application isready.
Strong essays, polishedactivities, and test test scores
that help, not hurt.
(07:40):
And last but not the least, ifyou are deferred in December,
don't panic.
Many colleges are deferring morestudents this year simply
because of volume.
For parents, what does thismean?
Be patient.
Early results can be emotional,but they don't define the entire
cycle.
Keep encouraging progress, notperfection.
(08:01):
And remember that regulardecision is still where most
offers are made.
I'd like to share myobservations from this early
season.
This is my 10th year workingthrough early season, and every
time I notice something new.
This year I've seen morestudents applying with clarity,
not chasing rankings, butchoosing schools where they'll
(08:23):
thrive.
I've also seen students step upand take ownership of their
process earlier, which I love.
But also I've seen burn out.
The overcommitment, the panicediting at 11.59 p.m., the
anxiety.
I've seen that a lot this yearas well.
If you're listening to this andyou are exhausted, take a deep
(08:46):
breath.
It's okay to pause.
The process doesn't define you.
It's just one chapter.
And trust me, when you're on theother side, it'll all make
sense.
Looking ahead, here's what wecan expect for the rest of the
cycle.
Test optional uncertainty isdefinitely gonna continue.
Some colleges may return torequiring scores by next year.
(09:08):
Financial aid timelines will betighter because of faster
changes.
Deferral rates will likely rise.
It's a volume management toolnow.
And mental health support inschools is becoming a major
point of conversation.
Colleges are recognizing thetoll this process is taking.
The bottom line (09:26):
you have to be proactive, stay informed, and
don't compare your journey toanyone else's.
I want to take a moment tohighlight one student who
completely redefined whatdedication and resilience look
like during the admissionsprocess.
Her name is Josh.
(09:48):
What makes this girl's storyspecial isn't just her talent,
it's her timing and hertenacity.
She joined us really late in theprocess when most students were
already finalizing applicationsand publishing essays.
But from our very first meeting,I could tell she had something
rare.
(10:09):
Composure, discipline, and agenuine hunger to learn.
She was based on the West Coast,and of course I'm on the East
Coast, which meant for us tomake progress, one has to find
time.
And that person was me.
There were nights when it waspast midnight in my time and
we'll still be on Google Meettogether.
She'll be typing out her essaysin real time, and I'll be
(10:31):
reading and editing as the wordsappeared on the screen.
And I'll be honest, I reallyenjoyed our time together.
I didn't mind staying up at all.
I loved it because what she waswriting was that good.
Her essays were so powerful thatshe became the first student
I've ever had wrote six completeversions of her personal
(10:51):
statement, and every single oneof them equally strong.
We actually got confused as towhat version we're going to go
with because they were all thatcompelling.
But what truly stood out was herresilience.
She never complained about theworkload, never backed down from
feedback, and somehow, eventhrough the stress, she managed
(11:12):
to keep her energy and her joy.
Joshetha reminded me thatpassion always shows up early.
Sometimes it shows up right ontime.
She reminded me why I do thiswork, that this process isn't
about perfect timing, it's aboutthe right mindset.
So to Joshetha, if you'relistening, thank you for the
(11:35):
late nights, the laughter, andfor reminding me that when a
student believes in their story,there is no time zone too far
and no deadline is too tight.
Now, before I wrap up, I want toshare what's new here at East
Coast Admissions, okay?
Because just like Admissionslandscape, we are evolving to.
(11:55):
First up, the East CoastAdmissions Scholars Award.
Applications are open for anannual$10,000 scholarship
recognizing leadership, service,and academic excellence.
This award isn't about grades,it's about impact.
Secondly, the College Compassmagazine.
Now we are on our 11th issue,and it's becoming one of my
(12:16):
favorite projects so far.
Each issue features realstories, expert insights, and
powerful lessons from familiesacross the country.
And we heard you, not everyonewants and needs a full service
counseling package.
That's why we've introducedgroup coaching programs, smaller
community-based sessions forguidance at a fraction of the
(12:37):
cost, mini packages, focussessions for essay review,
interview prep, applicationstrategy, application polish
planning, all of that.
And if you've been such a loyalaudience, we are doing something
special.
If you reach out and mention thecode podcast20, you'll receive
the 20% off on any of ourprograms or packages this month.
(12:59):
We've also expanded ourcollaborations with some
incredible organizations thatalign with our mission to build
globally aware future-readystudents.
Mike Rush Fassad, an ACT PERP,WIZAN for Academic Tutoring,
GYEL, a UN affiliated initiativebuilding youth leadership and
global awareness, LadderInternships for Professional
(13:21):
Experiences, Rosetta Stone forLanguage Learning, and Horizon
and SPARS for ResearchOpportunities.
These partnerships bring us evenmore value to our students
beyond admissions.
As we head deeper into thisearly admission season, here's
my message to every studentlistening.
You've done the work, you'vetold your story, now it's time
(13:44):
to breathe.
Early decision and early actionare powerful tools, but they are
not the end-all be all.
The right college will meet youwhere you are meant to be.
And to parents, thank you forworking this journey with your
children.
Your support, patience, andfaith in them mean more than you
realize.
This process is emotional, butit's also transformative.
(14:07):
So wherever you are right now,waiting, writing, and worrying,
take a moment to appreciate howfar you've already come.
Thank you for tuning in fortoday's episode of the East
Coast College AdmissionsPodcast.
Remember to subscribe so youdon't miss our next monthly deep
dive.
And if this episode gave yousome clarity or comfort, share
(14:29):
it with the family or friend whocould use it.
And don't forget, mentionPodcast 20 when you reach out
this month for 20% of any of ourprograms or packages.
Until next time, I'm Cleopatrahere to help you navigate
college admissions with strategyhard in perspective.
Hello and welcome back to the East Coast College
Admissions podcast.
I am your host, Cleopatra, andI'm so excited to kick off this
new chapter with you.
If you've been listening for awhile, you'll notice something
new.
SPEAKER_01 (01:20):
From here on out, we are doing monthly deep dive
episodes.
Longer, more thoughtful, anddesigned to give you real
insight into what's happening incollege admissions.
Especially here on the EastCoast.
Think of it as your monthlybriefing, real trends, real
data, and honest conversationsto help you make smart,
(01:44):
confident decisions.
So the early decision and earlyaction weight is officially
underway.
And wow, what a season it's beenshaping up to be.
Every year around this time, Isay the same thing.
This is the most competitivecycle we've seen here.
And every year, that turns outto be true.
(02:04):
We are seeing record-breakingearly applicant numbers at
nearly every major East Coastuniversity.
The University of Virginia,Northeasting, and Tata have all
reported surges in earlyapplications, many surpassing
pre-pandemic levels.
Why are so many studentsapplying early?
There are a few key reasons.
(02:26):
Point number one, pressure andperception.
There is a belief that applyingearly boosts your odds.
And while that's often true, itdepends on where and how you
apply.
The other point is strategy.
Some students apply early toshow demonstrated interest or
lock in into a top choiceschool.
(02:47):
And last but not the least,financial clarity.
For some families, earlydecisions bring in earlier
financial aid estimates.
But this year feels different.
More students than ever aretesting the waters with early
action, and fewer are committingto binding early decisions
unless they are truly sure offit and affordability.
(03:08):
But let's talk about the trendsI'm seeing right now across the
East Coast admissions officesand from my own student
experiences.
First, the bar is really, reallyhigh.
We are seeing more students with4.0 GPAs, strong test scores,
and leadership experiences thanever.
For admissions officers, thatmeans differentiation is
(03:30):
happening in the details.
Essays, recommendations, andoverall the cohesiveness across
student applications.
Second, test optional policiesare still in play, but strategy
also matters.
Some East Coast institutionslike MIT and Dartmouth have
reinstated test requirements.
Others remain test optional, butsubtly emphasizing that strong
(03:54):
scores can still enhance anapplication.
What we are also seeing is thatearly action is the saverly
round.
Students are applying earlyaction to strong colleges that
allow flexibility.
Places like Northeastern, UMD,and Boston University.
Early decision, on the otherhand, is becoming more targeted,
used mainly by students who havea clear first choice and solid
(04:18):
financial backing.
Last but not the least, essaysare doing more of the heavy
lifting now.
When everyone basically looksthe same academically, the essay
is what moves an applicant fromqualified to compelling.
Schools want dimension and notperfection.
Let's go inside the earlyreading role.
You know, I've worked on bothsides of the table, and let me
(04:40):
paint the picture for you.
In early November, teams ofadmissions officers, especially
on the East Coast, are alreadyin what we call the first read
stage.
That means every essay, everyrecommendation, every activity
list is being read quickly butcarefully.
They are looking for SPARK.
Think about academic alignment,school contribution, and the
(05:04):
story, why the student.
At many colleges, a student'sapplication is read by two
regional officers.
If they agree, it goes tocommittee.
If not, it is debated.
In early decision, because it'sbinding, those decisions carry
more weight.
Admissions teams know thataccepting you means you are
(05:24):
going to enroll.
And that shapes the yieldstrategy.
So while early decision doesstatistically raise your
chances, it also raisesexpectations.
They want to see certainty,maturity, and fit.
So now let's talk about data.
Okay.
Last year, the University ofPennsylvania failed over 50% of
(05:46):
its incoming class from theearly decision round.
Duke admitted more than 800students through early decision.
That's half of its class.
Northeast's early action pooljumped 25% in one year.
This means one thing.
The majority of available sportsare being filled really early.
(06:08):
That's why applying in regulardecision now feels harder.
Not because students are lessqualified, but because there are
simply fewer seats left.
But don't let that discourageyou.
Use it to inform your strategy.
If you're applying for earlyaction or early decision, here
is what matters most.
Point number one being that youhave to show institutional fit.
(06:32):
Don't recycle essays.
Show them you've done yourhomework.
Reference professors, programs,or values that align with your
goals.
Point number two, advisedofficers can tell when you're
trying too hard to soundimpressive.
They prefer students who soundclear about who they are and
what they want.
Point number three, be realisticabout early decision.
(06:55):
If financial aid is a concern,don't feel pressured into a
binding decision.
There are amazing regulardecision opportunities waiting
for you.
And last but not the least, planfor deferral.
A deferral isn't a soft no, it'sa naughty.
Students who write strong updateletters maintain grades and add
(07:18):
meaningful progress often moveoff wait list later.
What does this all mean forstudents and parents in the
middle of the process?
Well, for students, you have tobe intentional.
Don't apply early just becauseeveryone else is.
Make sure your application isready.
Strong essays, polishedactivities, and test test scores
that help, not hurt.
(07:40):
And last but not the least, ifyou are deferred in December,
don't panic.
Many colleges are deferring morestudents this year simply
because of volume.
For parents, what does thismean?
Be patient.
Early results can be emotional,but they don't define the entire
cycle.
Keep encouraging progress, notperfection.
(08:01):
And remember that regulardecision is still where most
offers are made.
I'd like to share myobservations from this early
season.
This is my 10th year workingthrough early season, and every
time I notice something new.
This year I've seen morestudents applying with clarity,
not chasing rankings, butchoosing schools where they'll
(08:23):
thrive.
I've also seen students step upand take ownership of their
process earlier, which I love.
But also I've seen burn out.
The overcommitment, the panicediting at 11.59 p.m., the
anxiety.
I've seen that a lot this yearas well.
If you're listening to this andyou are exhausted, take a deep
(08:46):
breath.
It's okay to pause.
The process doesn't define you.
It's just one chapter.
And trust me, when you're on theother side, it'll all make
sense.
Looking ahead, here's what wecan expect for the rest of the
cycle.
Test optional uncertainty isdefinitely gonna continue.
Some colleges may return torequiring scores by next year.
(09:08):
Financial aid timelines will betighter because of faster
changes.
Deferral rates will likely rise.
It's a volume management toolnow.
And mental health support inschools is becoming a major
point of conversation.
Colleges are recognizing thetoll this process is taking.
The bottom line (09:26):
you have to be proactive, stay informed, and
don't compare your journey toanyone else's.
I want to take a moment tohighlight one student who
completely redefined whatdedication and resilience look
like during the admissionsprocess.
Her name is Josh.
(09:48):
What makes this girl's storyspecial isn't just her talent,
it's her timing and hertenacity.
She joined us really late in theprocess when most students were
already finalizing applicationsand publishing essays.
But from our very first meeting,I could tell she had something
rare.
(10:09):
Composure, discipline, and agenuine hunger to learn.
She was based on the West Coast,and of course I'm on the East
Coast, which meant for us tomake progress, one has to find
time.
And that person was me.
There were nights when it waspast midnight in my time and
we'll still be on Google Meettogether.
She'll be typing out her essaysin real time, and I'll be
(10:31):
reading and editing as the wordsappeared on the screen.
And I'll be honest, I reallyenjoyed our time together.
I didn't mind staying up at all.
I loved it because what she waswriting was that good.
Her essays were so powerful thatshe became the first student
I've ever had wrote six completeversions of her personal
(10:51):
statement, and every single oneof them equally strong.
We actually got confused as towhat version we're going to go
with because they were all thatcompelling.
But what truly stood out was herresilience.
She never complained about theworkload, never backed down from
feedback, and somehow, eventhrough the stress, she managed
(11:12):
to keep her energy and her joy.
Joshetha reminded me thatpassion always shows up early.
Sometimes it shows up right ontime.
She reminded me why I do thiswork, that this process isn't
about perfect timing, it's aboutthe right mindset.
So to Joshetha, if you'relistening, thank you for the
(11:35):
late nights, the laughter, andfor reminding me that when a
student believes in their story,there is no time zone too far
and no deadline is too tight.
Now, before I wrap up, I want toshare what's new here at East
Coast Admissions, okay?
Because just like Admissionslandscape, we are evolving to.
(11:55):
First up, the East CoastAdmissions Scholars Award.
Applications are open for anannual$10,000 scholarship
recognizing leadership, service,and academic excellence.
This award isn't about grades,it's about impact.
Secondly, the College Compassmagazine.
Now we are on our 11th issue,and it's becoming one of my
(12:16):
favorite projects so far.
Each issue features realstories, expert insights, and
powerful lessons from familiesacross the country.
And we heard you, not everyonewants and needs a full service
counseling package.
That's why we've introducedgroup coaching programs, smaller
community-based sessions forguidance at a fraction of the
(12:37):
cost, mini packages, focussessions for essay review,
interview prep, applicationstrategy, application polish
planning, all of that.
And if you've been such a loyalaudience, we are doing something
special.
If you reach out and mention thecode podcast20, you'll receive
the 20% off on any of ourprograms or packages this month.
(12:59):
We've also expanded ourcollaborations with some
incredible organizations thatalign with our mission to build
globally aware future-readystudents.
Mike Rush Fassad, an ACT PERP,WIZAN for Academic Tutoring,
GYEL, a UN affiliated initiativebuilding youth leadership and
global awareness, LadderInternships for Professional
(13:21):
Experiences, Rosetta Stone forLanguage Learning, and Horizon
and SPARS for ResearchOpportunities.
These partnerships bring us evenmore value to our students
beyond admissions.
As we head deeper into thisearly admission season, here's
my message to every studentlistening.
You've done the work, you'vetold your story, now it's time
(13:44):
to breathe.
Early decision and early actionare powerful tools, but they are
not the end-all be all.
The right college will meet youwhere you are meant to be.
And to parents, thank you forworking this journey with your
children.
Your support, patience, andfaith in them mean more than you
realize.
This process is emotional, butit's also transformative.
(14:07):
So wherever you are right now,waiting, writing, and worrying,
take a moment to appreciate howfar you've already come.
Thank you for tuning in fortoday's episode of the East
Coast College AdmissionsPodcast.
Remember to subscribe so youdon't miss our next monthly deep
dive.
And if this episode gave yousome clarity or comfort, share
(14:29):
it with the family or friend whocould use it.
And don't forget, mentionPodcast 20 when you reach out
this month for 20% of any of ourprograms or packages.
Until next time, I'm Cleopatrahere to help you navigate
college admissions with strategyhard in perspective.
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