Early Action/Regular Action isn’t a big decision at MIT. There’s no difference in the review process or criteria used for admission in EA (non-binding) vs. RA, and thus no advantage or disadvantage to applying for either round, aside from learning your decision earlier. Every applicant has to meet the same standards and go through the same very difficult admission decision-making process.
MIT’s Early Action program is both nonbinding and nonrestrictive. If you’ll be able to complete all testing requirements by the November testing dates and submit your application and supporting documents by November 1, MIT will consider your application for Early Action. At that time, you may be admitted, denied, or deferred to Regular Action.
Students who are denied EA are not eligible for RA.