<p>D is finishing her junior year of HS, and we are starting to map out a strategy for applications in the Fall. Her top school is Duke, and from lurking around the decision threads, I think her stats make her a strong candidate. She would like to apply ED and get it out of the way, one way or another. Can those who were accepted early at Duke comment on whether going that route harms one's chances of receiving merit scholarships? Be gentle with me, it's my first CC post!</p>
<p>Applying Early Decision will absolutely NOT hurt chances for merit scholarships at Duke. All applicants, both early and regular decision, are automatically considered for merit scholarships, which are evaluated at the same time in the Spring.</p>