Hi,
I just came back from a tour of Vanderbilt University, and I cannot picture myself going anywhere else! I really want to do everything I can to increase my chances of getting in. Is Early Decision more or less competitive than Regular Decision? On one hand, I’m thinking that it might be less competitive due to the smaller amounts of applications and the fact that many top students probably do not want to tie themselves down to one school. On the other hand, I have heard that the applicants are generally more qualified in Early Decision.
Which would increase my chances of being accepted?
Thanks!
My opinion is that students should apply ED to a school they want to go to and at which they can get admitted. If you follow those principles, then your chances are probably better in ED.
What tends to happen is that students apply to reaches for their ED.
ED NO QUESTION. I was thinking about one of the Ivies and was just afraid of the committment. The torture of this year has been beyond anything. My parents have already told my siblings they will have to apply ED. The worst part is I still want that ivy so what have I gained by waiting especially since this has been a tough admission season and I have serious doubts about getting in to this ivy.
Just make sure the finances work. Vanderbilt took 49% of their class ED this year, what does that leave for the rest of us?
I do believe EA lowers your chances unless you are super because they are holding a seat wondering if you will come as opposed to selling you a seat that you have said you will buy
Before you decide to apply ED run the Net Price Calculator to make sure your family can afford it. You shouldn’t apply ED if you need to compare FA offers.
In your understandable enthusiasm for Vanderbilt, I urge you not to forget a few “safety schools.” I’m NOT suggesting you won’t be accepted by Vandy, however – like its peer institutions – Vanderbilt is a challenging admit for EVERYONE. Obviously, what you want to assiduously avoid is late-December '15, with a rejection from your ED and no “ensured” options with which you’d be happy.