Early Decision vs. Early Admission

What if your EA or ED application is deferred or denied?
Typically, a student uses an EA or ED application for a reach school, because the chances of getting in are usually somewhat greater in the early rounds. But psychologically, it's a good idea to prepare yourself in the event that you are denied or deferred. If you don't have the consistent grade trend in rigorous courses, the EA/ED school might defer you in order to see your grades from first semester of senior year.

Have you considered ED II?
If you don't get into your ED or EA school (either denied or deferred), several schools offer the option of ED II. This means you are applying to another school on your list that is already one of your top choices. (Again, you are committing to going there if you're accepted.) The application deadline for ED II is usually the same as Regular Decision (generally early January), giving you enough time after your ED I notification to submit it. ED II will give you an edge, and if you are a student who needs to show an improvement in your grades in the first semester of senior year, this is definitely an option to consider.

Have you considered REA?
Restrictive early action (REA) means that you are only allowed to apply to one school early, but, if accepted, it is non-binding. This is a great option if you really like a school, but are still not quite 100% sure, for whatever reason, that you want to attend.

Your biggest challenge will be patience. If you are deferred or denied, those extra three and a half months are a long time to wait. So be patient. Being committed to and involved in your classes, community service projects and extracurricular activities will help make the time go faster, and you will be doing something good for yourself and for others while you wait!