<p>I am applying to MIT but I am unsure whether I should apply EA or RD. I'm scheduled to take the physics SAT II in November but only recently started studying and feel like I won't be ready in time. If I postpone taking it to December or January, I know I'll be able to do better but I won't be able to apply EA since I don't have any other science subject tests scores to send in. </p>
<p>Also, I only recently started working on my app so I probably won't be able to write my strongest essays by the EA deadline (so I'll be stuck with lower-quality essays for the RD round too) If I apply RD, I feel like I'll be able to put together stronger essays but will lose out on the edge EA gives.</p>
<p>Is it worth forgoing the advantage given by EA to get better SAT II scores and possibly write stronger essays?</p>
<p>If any advantage is given to EA applicants (which I doubt there is), it’s negligible at best. You’re much better off applying RD with better scores and stronger essays than applying EA with weak scores and essays.</p>
<p>Particularly if you feel your essays would be improved by waiting until RD, definitely wait. Higher test scores are nice, but probably not a huge deal unless you think the difference in scores would be really big. </p>
<p>There’s not an advantage conferred by applying to MIT EA, except that 1) you have a chance to be admitted in December and not stress as much about admissions in the spring, and 2) you’re able to send in your application, then think about its strengths and weaknesses during November and December and send any updates in January. It’s not that the admissions office has a preference for EA applicants.</p>
<p>If you think your application would be stronger if you applied RD, then do it by all means.</p>
<p>thanks for the responses guys!!
Also, I just realized I already submitted part I of my app and checked off EA. Is there any way I can change it to RD?? I’ve also already scheduled an interview with my EC and told him I’m applying EA. Should I notify him if I do manage to change my app to RD (and will he look at the change negatively)?</p>
<p>I think you should just take the SAT II in November and then retake it if you don’t like your score (unless you think you’re going to get a 200). You’ll probably do better than you think.</p>
<p>If you do need to change to RD, send an e-mail to the admissions office notifying them, and I’d also e-mail your EC just to be polite. I’m pretty sure they’ll understand.</p>