College: The Early-Decision Option

As you may know, some colleges offer their applicants the option of applying early. This allows accepted students to get a head start on their college planning, especially if the college they've applied to early is their first choice.

The Atlanta Journal Constitution recently reported that more high school students -- at least high school students in Georgia -- are choosing the early-decision option for college. About 15% of four-year colleges in the U.S. offer some form of early-action or early-decision program, and with more students than ever applying to college this fall, some feel that early decision puts them ahead of the pack -- at least a little bit.

Would you consider taking part in an early-decision or early-action program for college? Have any of you already taken part in an early-decision program? Share your experiences in the Comments section below.