Sorry if this has already been asked before, but are EA applicants at a (significant) disadvantage as compared to ED I applicants (and ED II applicants)? I would love to go to UChicago, but I’m not sure if I’m ready to commit with ED, so that’s why I lean towards EA. At the same time, I don’t want to discount myself if I could possibly have a higher advantage by applying ED I. Thanks!
ED had a notably higher rate of admission this past year but that doesn’t mean the same will hold (or hold as much) this upcoming cycle. Last year many who were deferred from EA opted to switch their applications to EDII. If that opportunity is offered this year, then you might consider applying early non-binding (EA) and then see what happens. If UChicago is your #1 and you have a good idea of your net COA then you should consider ED. Regardless of which plan you choose, it’s good to apply early if you are very keen on UChicago. And definitely focus on those essays! Good luck to you!
@JBStillFlying Thank you! I couldn’t find the statistics from last year, so I’ll keep all these things in mind when I choose what exactly to do.
@girlwhoruns they most likely won’t post ED vs. EA admission rates and Class of 2021 profile isn’t even up on their website yet. You can find some internally-shared stats about the number of EA and ED1 admits on the other Uchicago threads. While not officially released (yet), many stats have been shared by the admissions office with those attending various admitted student events.
From what I gather, EA had a lower acceptance rate than ED, but this does not necessarily mean one is held to a significant disadvantage. ED gives a slight bump, yes, but generally it is because those who apply ED are particularly qualified, dedicated to, and/or can easily afford the school. Those who apply EA tend to either be less dedicated to the school as a first choice or cannot apply ED for financial reasons––ergo, the school has more incentive to accept an equally qualified ED applicant over an equally qualified EA applicant. However, if you are qualified enough to get in ED, you will probably get in EA.
@Wolfgangbread - more like if you were admitted EA you obviously would have been admitted ED 
ED/EDII has substantially better rates than EA as mentioned above.
@Wolfgangbread with a less than 2% EA for class of 2021, much better to go EDII if deferred EA/SCEA (Uchicago or other schools) or the odds are substantially against the Applicant. Comes down to available open slots and is difficult to differentiate at that point. .