<p>I applied non-restrictive early action to the University of Chicago. It's my top choice, and I made that clear in my application; I'm hoping that my EA status will help balance out my somewhat weak stats (below). I would like to get some of my other applications out (my 2nd choice would be Brandeis), but I'm concerned that if Chicago sees that, it'll weaken the effect of going early action and make them wonder if it's really my first choice. What should I do?
Some stats:
Catholic high school on Long Island; 94 average (3-year; no conversion) - my biggest concern; SATs: 770 CR, 730 Math; long, (I hope) well-developed and well-written essay; my teacher recs were probably pretty good, but I can't access them; I have visited Chicago and interviewed, as with Brandeis.</p>
<p>How on earth would Chicago ‘see’ you’ve applied to other schools? </p>
<p>I’m curious because I applied EA as well, but I’ve applied to plenty of other places.</p>
<p>Unless you decided to apply to Brandeis ED, there is no problem here. Schools do not, as far as I know, share the names of applicants before decisions are announced. And then, only in the case of students accepted binding ED. Chicago is a true early action school. Though you can express your interest by applying EA it is not binding and they fully expect that most students will apply elsewhere as well.</p>
<p>That’s the thing; I’ve heard schools can see your entire list, but I’m not sure.</p>
<p>I do not believe that is true. You can always send a query to the Common App to confirm, but since you do not expressly give permission for the Common App to share your information with any school other than the ones you submit, I don’t know with what authority they would share your list.</p>
<p>Even the Ivies don’t see each other’s applicants before making their admissions decisions. Ivies will exchange the list of accepted ED admits to ensure their EA admits are off the market.</p>
<p>Even though Chicago is your first choice, you’re being prudent to apply to other schools at the same time, or at least get the apps in “ready” form so you can send them once you hear from Chicago.</p>
<p>Is Brandeis rolling decision? Do you have a fee waiver? If not you might consider waiting till you hear from Chicago - it might save some money.</p>