Is it better to apply RD vs. EA for upward trends?

Applying to College
1

<p>Hey everyone, i'm applying to top 30 engineering schools, and wanted some input here- i'm in the process of salvaging a frosh gpa (i've taken summer school courses, more advanced courses etc.)</p>

<p>9- 3.2
10-3.8
11-4.0</p>

<p>....for a grand total of 3.74</p>

<p>However I have an opportunity to make this even higher w/ my first semester senior year grades, which leads me to ask whether it would benefit me to apply RD so colleges see these grades as a first part of my transcript.</p>

<p>I know it's possible to be deferred and then re apply, but I've heard that your chances after being deferred are much lower.</p>

<p>Could anyone shed some light on this? Thanks!</p>

2

<p>Apply to some EA schools, some will defer you if they want to see your senior year grades. So in the end it works out to be the same.</p>