<p>I'm considering applying to Duke this RD cycle, but I had a question regarding the two deadlines Duke offers. The first is the 12/20 deadline which essentially seems to guarantee you an alumni interview. The second is the typical RD deadline in January. Is there an advantage to apply by December 20th or is there not?</p>
<p>Duke attempts to interview all ED and RD applicants, but the sheer volume is overwhelming in some geographic locations (especially for RD). Therefore, a 20 December “interview priority” deadline has been established, which increases the probability of an interview, but does not guarantee it. Many RD candidates who apply in the last ten days of December will, in fact, be offered an interview. With this said: (a) generally, the interview is of relatively minor acceptance importance and (b) if you are not contacted for an interview, you are permitted to provide an additional letter of recommendation. </p>
<p>@toptier is it possible for a deferred applicant to get an interview during the RD round if they didn’t get one during the ED round? Thanks!!</p>
<p>Generally, no, but you could call Admissions and ask. </p>
<p>@TopTier So, just to be clear, there is no advantage to applying by the priority deadline?</p>
<p>Thank you! @toptier </p>
<p>@rokmc87 you have a better chance at getting an interview if you do, but you still might get an interview if you apply later and the interview does not count for much of the application to begin with</p>
<p>@rokmc87 (re your post #4): What @patriotsfan said. </p>