<p>So I'm not the best student, but I'm definitely not the worse. My top schools are UChicago and Northwestern, which have EA and ED, respectively. Now, if I apply early, then admissions officers will not see my first semester senior year grades. However, if I apply RD, then it is required that I send them in. I think by them seeing my senior year grades, I'll have a greater chance of them seeing me as a student who can handle a challenge.</p>
<p>So, what do you guys think? Should I still apply EA/ED, or just apply RD?</p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>Well, I'm sort of in the same situation. And I'm doing early to Chicago even though it's not my first choice. I'm applying to my 1st choice school after I get senior grades. So I guess it works out somewhat for me. It also depends how "low" your grades are so far. If they are around the average for Uchicago, I think you should apply early.</p>
<p>a) schools will see your first quarter grades in an EA/ED application. Assuming your school does quarters as well as semesters (meaning the semester is split in half, even though your transcript only has semester grades). if you can do well then, it should be almost as good as semester grades.</p>
<p>b) if you don't get in ED/EA, you could be deferred. Or, at least, your senior year grades won't be the difference between admission and rejection in an early application.</p>
<p>I decided not to do ED to my top choice because my senior year will be rigorous and I think that I will bring up my GPA. If you're in the same situation as me, I suggest you do the same.</p>
<p>Do not apply to Northwestern ED unless you are SURE that it is your FIRST CHOICE, regardless of the strength of your transcript. If you are accepted, you are bound to attend. Apply RD only.</p>
<p>If you have a strong EA application at the moment, you are most likely to be deferred rather than rejected outright. At that point, Chicago will then see your first semester grades. In such a case, you have little to lose. </p>
<p>If your EA application is not currently particularly strong, you may be rejected outright, so Chicago will never see your first semester grades. In that case, apply RD.</p>