<p>I'm a rising senior who absolutely loves Tufts and really, really wants to go there! I'm not necessarily the strongest applicant (top 10% of class in a public, competitive high school with a very rigorous schedule, 33 ACT, pretty good Ec's but nothing world changing like starting a foundation or taking college courses over the summer or having a high profile internship, great recs, hopefully great essays because I'm so passionate about getting in, upper middle class, white, and from CT) and because Tufts is becoming increasingly popular (among students more qualified than I am both in my school and in the rest of the world) the acceptance rate is down to 17% and the odds seem against me. In anyone's opinion, which of these application plans would best increase the chances of someone like myself (I know the ED acceptance rate is the highest but I'm worried I'll be at the bottom of the barrel compared to other ED applicants)? Thanks in advance for any input. PS I'm interested in going into IR and/or Economics.</p>
<p>Hi there! While I don’t have experience with admissions (but then again, the majority of people here don’t), I do have a sibling who graduated from Tufts and another who went elsewhere and both went through the application process. Here’s my best take at your question: if a college’s cost of attendance isn’t a major concern for you and your family, then I’d go with ED1. If cost is a concern (and let’s be honest, isn’t it a concern for everyone nowadays?) then you might want to go with ED2 or RD, depending on your circumstances. I’m certain that colleges factor in “demonstrated interest” when making a decision, and while it isn’t the biggest component of an application, it can be a tip factor at times. So, applying ED would definitely give you an edge with the “demonstrated interest” component.</p>
<p>Well, that’s my two cents. Best of luck to you! I’m also applying to Tufts, but not ED. Hope the application process goes well for both of us!</p>
<p>If Tufts is absolutely your first choice and if you are not seeking FA, I would recommend ED1.</p>
<p>ED1. </p>