<p>So I understand that the acceptance rates are generally higher, but isn't this because of a large amount of legacies, athletes, and a more competitive body in general? Or do your chance really increase? I tried searching but I wasn't too successful. I'm probably applying to SEAS to the CogSci/CompSci program. Any insight please? </p>
<p>There is definitely a benefit bestowed by applying ED, but how much of a benefit is not easily discernible. Obviously, looking purely at acceptance rates, the ED acceptance rate is about 3.5 times higher than the RD rate (25% vs. 7%). But, as you point out, it’s not that simple given the makeup of the ED pool compared to the RD pool. However, Penn has made clear over the years that it takes into account the interest in and commitment to the school demonstrated by the submission of a binding ED application And my sense is that all else being equal, applying ED can push an application that otherwise might hang in the balance, over the finish line. It won’t help a “deficient” application–the average SAT, GPA, etc. numbers are generally the same for the ED admits as they are for the RD admits. But it can be just that little extra push that makes the difference. If nothing else, it’s certainly easier for an application to stand out among 5,000 or so other applications, as opposed to the 30,000 or so against which it must compete in the RD round.</p>
<p>So bottom line: if you know that Penn is your first choice and that you definitely will attend if admitted (assuming that any financial aid need is met), then it’s certainly advisable to apply ED.</p>