<p>I am contemplating whether or not to apply for Early Decision.</p>
<p>Do colleges (like Upenn (wharton)) pick the top applicants from Early Decision? If so, and I am not a "top" applicant, is it not worth applying? Also, should I not apply for ED because I am unsure about the financial aid I will be given?</p>
<p>Thank you!</p>
<p>The answer to the financial aid part of your question is, "it depends." The very first thing you should do about that is go to the UPenn financial aid webpage and learn everything you can about their financial aid policies. After that talk to your parents and get their response. If you have any specific questions after that, there are lots of people here who might be able to clarify a few things or just give you some points-of-view to consider.</p>
<p>As to the first part of your question, sometimes ED can give a student a little boost in the odds they might get accepted, because by applying early they're willing to commit to attending. That said, grades/test scores/other factors need to be in range with other accepted students regardless.</p>