Does Applying ED actually help?

<p>Hi All,
I am applying early decision this fall to Bowdoin. I am not an athlete or a legacy so I was wondering if applying ED actually helps at all? I love the school and I am totally committed so I figured why not, but I'm just curious..</p>

<p>Thanks</p>

<p>By all the evidence that is out there, yes, it helps. But be aware that Bowdoin is one of those places where the ED advantage is overstated by the raw numbers. A huge number of Bowdoin’s ED admits are athletes and other special cases. You still need to have strong numbers to get in if you’re not hooked.</p>

<p>I do agree with the poster above that a percentage of ED admits are athletes, legacies etc. Still ED does help at many LACs. Just be sure it is your top choice before applying ED so you have no regrets if you get in.</p>

<p>Thanks for your help!
I am applying because i am SURE it is my top choice and my GPA/SATs are in the range (even though Bowdoin is test optional)
I was just wondering how to compare myself to RD applicants</p>