<p>Early action is different from early decision. Early action just means you apply/audition in the fall and hear back by the end of the year (typically). It is not binding and you don’t have to accept the offer until May 1. You may apply to as many other schools as you want.</p>
<p>Early decision is a binding offer which must be accepted within a certain time frame. If you apply early decision, you must accept the offer and withdraw any outstanding applications at other colleges. IMO, you should only apply early decision if you are absolutely certain that you want to attend and that you can afford it even without finanical aid.</p>