<p>Hey, was just wondering if there would be any sort of advantage of applying EA over RD as there are to some other single-choice schools (though i know Caltech is not SCEA or ED). I do want to go to caltech and have it listed as one of the top ones I want to strive to get into, but I also want that advantage of applying early to some schools. Was also wondering if a parent legacy is any help at all? Anyways thanks in advance for any feedback!</p>
<p>If you apply to EA, it helps convey that Caltech is one of your first choices (it also helps to say that outright somewhere, if it's true). If you're very well qualified and you get in, it will save you some worry and applications to safety schools. We are more conservative in the EA round, so we defer many candidates we will later admit. On balance, it won't significantly help or hurt your admissions chances much -- just give you the benefit of knowing earlier if you're a clear admit. The exception is if your grades have been spotty, and an extra semester would earn you some much needed A+'s. Then you should just apply in the regular round.</p>