<p>Hi, I'm going to be a senior this fall and I am debating whether to apply early decision or regular decision. I'm considering applying ED to either columbia or upenn- on the other hand, my father wants me to apply to schools like princeton, harvard, georgetown, etc. If I have a strong academic background and strong extracurriculars (i.e. 4.23 gpa out of 4, all state choir, etc.) is it a better idea to apply early decision? And is it true that financial aid offers are nearly nonexistent if one applies early?</p>
<p>You should apply ED if:</p>
<p>a) There's one school that you'd be 100% content going to, and you want to make sure you get in. Even if you're a highly qualified applicant, admissions to really top-notch schools gets pretty random. If you'd be happy at any of those schools, then it doesn't matter how you apply, but if you have a clear first choice, it's safer to apply early.</p>
<p>b) Aid isn't a big issue for you. I've heard stories about people who apply early and get great aid packages, and people who apply early and get screwed over. If you're in the latter group, you'll have to negotiate with the school to get more aid or get out of your ED agreement. If you want to compare for the best aid package, you're better off applying regular.</p>