<p>If I remember correctly Rice had two early decision rounds, so I applied for the 1st one. I got a half tuition scholarship and was notified of my decision my 15th of Dec. UIUC accepted me too around the same time.</p>
<p>After that I just went ahead with my reach applications - MIT, Stanford & Duke - and got into one of them :D</p>
<p>Though I must admit, that the admissions process has become even more screwed up since the time I applied - more of a crap shoot. Also I feel lots of people on this board under-estimate themselves - all of you have a great shot. In my experience, everything happens for a reason and you will always be rewarded for your efforts!!</p>