I applied early

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I applied early" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the timing of an application, such as for a job, school, or program, indicating that you submitted your application before the deadline. Example: "To increase my chances of acceptance, I applied early to the university."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

I applied early action but was deferred.

The New York Times

"I applied early in 2002, and they said no," he said.

The New Yorker

"I applied early, and my daughter only got in when she was 3," Ms. Rowe-Finkbeiner says.

The New York Times

I applied early for the January admission (there are two intakes per year--in September and January--and I was unlikely to finish the PhD in time to start in September), so it was May when I was invited to interview in Paris.

Science Magazine

So I applied early decision.

Huffington Post

I applied early, and I got in.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

This time of year, just about every college-bound senior asks, "Should I apply early?" Colleges insist there is no advantage, that bloated admissions from early decision and early action programs simply reflect the fact that better applicants have their acts together and are ready to apply in the fall.

The New York Times

As a high school senior who applied early, I know that those on the regular schedule are just as likely to slack off when they send in their applications.

The New York Times

I'll apply early decision there because I liked it the best.

The New York Times

I may be qualified, but there's another student in my class who also applied early, and he has better credentials.

The New York Times

Rebecca Ballhaus applied early decision to Brown.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In a professional context, specify the advantages of applying early, such as priority consideration or access to limited resources.

Common error

Avoid assuming that applying early guarantees acceptance. While it may increase your chances, it does not replace the need for a strong application.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I applied early" primarily functions as a statement indicating the timing of an application submission. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, such as college admissions and research studies.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I applied early" is a grammatically correct and straightforward way to indicate that an application was submitted before the standard deadline. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used in contexts such as college admissions, job applications, and research studies. While its usage is generally neutral, the phrase can convey eagerness or preparedness. To enhance clarity, especially in college admissions, specify whether you applied early decision or early action. Common alternatives include "I submitted my application early" and "I sent in my application ahead of schedule". While applying early may offer some advantages, remember that a strong application remains crucial for success.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I submitted my application early.

Replaces "applied" with "submitted" while retaining the core meaning of early submission.

I sent in my application ahead of schedule.

Uses "sent in" instead of "applied" and specifies "ahead of schedule" to emphasize early submission.

I made an early application.

Modifies the sentence structure to use "early application" as a noun phrase.

My application was submitted in advance.

Shifts the focus to the application being submitted in advance, rather than the action of applying.

I ensured my application was early.

Emphasizes the intention behind submitting the application early.

I filed my application promptly.

Substitutes "applied" with "filed" and "early" with "promptly", indicating a timely submission.

I lodged my application well before the deadline.

Uses "lodged" to mean submitted and adds "well before the deadline" for emphasis.

I put in my application in good time.

Replaces "applied" with "put in" and "early" with "in good time", indicating submission with sufficient time to spare.

I got my application in early.

An informal rephrasing, using "got my application in" to replace "applied".

I was an early applicant.

Transforms the sentence to focus on the applicant being early rather than the act of applying.

FAQs

What does it mean to say "I applied early" in the context of college admissions?

Saying "I applied early" typically refers to submitting your college application through an early decision or early action program, which have earlier deadlines than regular admission. It demonstrates your interest and preparedness.

What are some alternatives to saying "I applied early"?

You can use alternatives like "I submitted my application early", "I sent in my application ahead of schedule", or "I made an early application" to convey the same meaning.

Is there any advantage to applying early?

Applying early can sometimes increase your chances of acceptance, as it demonstrates strong interest and allows admissions committees to assess your application before the regular applicant pool. However, it's crucial to submit a well-prepared application, as applying early doesn't compensate for weaknesses in your profile.

What is the difference between early decision and early action?

Early decision is binding, meaning you commit to attending the college if accepted. Early action is non-binding, allowing you to apply to multiple colleges early and choose the best option if accepted to more than one.