Lists · 2026–27
The 6 US universities with Restrictive Early Action in 2026–27
6 US universities on the Common App use Restrictive Early Action for 2026–27: Harvard University, Stanford University, Yale University, Princeton University, University of Notre Dame and California Institute of Technology (Caltech). REA isn't binding, but it usually forbids applying early to other private universities at the same time. Read each university's REA rules before you submit.
Updated September 25, 2026
Your plan checks deadlines, fees and tests against the rest of your list.
| University | REA | Regular Decision | Intl fee | SAT/ACT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | Nov 1, 2026 | Jan 4, 2027 | $85 | Required |
| Harvard University | Nov 1, 2026 | Jan 1, 2027 | $95 | Required |
| Princeton University | Nov 1, 2026 | Jan 1, 2027 | $85 | Optional |
| Stanford University | Nov 1, 2026 | Jan 5, 2027 | $100 | Required |
| University of Notre Dame | Nov 1, 2026 | Jan 4, 2027 | $85 | Optional |
| Yale University | Nov 1, 2026 | Jan 2, 2027 | $85 | Required |
Built from each university's 2026–27 requirements as published on the Common App (updated September 25, 2026). Universities can change them during the season: confirm on the official page before you apply. Download as CSV
Questions
Which universities have Restrictive Early Action?
Harvard University, Stanford University, Yale University, Princeton University, University of Notre Dame and California Institute of Technology (Caltech) for 2026–27.
Is Restrictive Early Action binding?
No: if you're admitted you can still compare offers until the reply date. The restriction is on where else you can apply early.
Can I apply REA and Early Decision at the same time?
Usually not to a private university's Early Decision. Some REA policies allow early applications to public universities or for scholarships: each one spells it out on its site.