<p>I want to go to UPenn, and I know it is hard to get into. I want to major in Biology (premed). Does early decision make a significant difference in some one’s chances of admission to UPenn?</p>
<p>Yes. This year the ED acceptance rate was 29% and the overall acceptance rate was 15%, so the RD rate must have been lower than that. More underqualified people probably apply RD, but still..if you know you want to go and money is not an issue, definitely apply early.</p>
<p>even if money is an issue, if you still want to go to Penn, I recommend applying ED. I was deferred ED and then accepted RD. I honestly think if I hadn't done ED, then I would not have been accepted. Money wise, Penn does guarentee EFC and so I don't think you can get screwed with that. If you know you want Penn, go for ED.</p>
<p>^It depends, you could end up screwed with the financial aspect. Penn commits to covering your financial need, but THEY are the ones who determine what your need is. In other words, what Penn might want your fmaily to contribute might be more than what your parents want.</p>
<p>Let me rephrase what I said. Money does not have to be "not an issue". I applied ED and it's not like my parents have wads of money to throw at Penn. However, whether or not you're applying for financial aid and whether or not you'll be depending on outside merit scholarships, I think it's best that you're absolutely sure there is some way you can pay. Maybe your parents will cover the whole thing, maybe you're willing to take out tons of loans, maybe you have $5 in the bank and are absolutely sure you'll get tons of aid, whatever.</p>