<p>My application started being processed Oct 1, and I have an interview for Yale October 29th. I'm really excited about Yale, and I'm kicking myself for not applying early decision.
I have some questions for the interviewer, (would that be appropriate, since the interview is supposed to be Yale getting another look at me?), about Yale and New Haven, since I'm also strongly considering two other schools.</p>
<pre><code> I don't really know what to expect in the interview, and I don't know whether it's a good idea to switch from Regular Decision to SCEA this close to the deadline, (November 1).
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<p>As long as you weren't planning to apply EA or ED elsewhere, what do you have to lose? I don't think that there's any reasonable argument that applying SCEA disadvantages you relative to RD. The most likely outcomes are that you get rejected (which would have happened RD anyway, but you know 3-1/2 months earlier, and in time to think about how to fix whatever issues there may be on your other applications) or that you wind up in the RD pool anyway. </p>
<p>There's really no downside. There is a cost, but only if the SCEA rules would restrict you. </p>
<p>And, as to timing -- 90% of the SCEA applications probably haven't been submitted yet. Or more. The timing is fine. Just make sure your interviewer knows that you changed your application. But a lot of SCEA applicants will probably get interviewed in November. You're ahead of the game.</p>
<p>One additional thought to JHS's excellent post. RD can be more appealing if you are a borderline applicant. Applying SCEA will then risk a rejection, whereas RD gives you more time to strengthen your application. For example, you may need a boost in GPA from your first term grades and feel you are going to get it. Or you need to take the SAT a couple more times for a higher score. Or you hope to win some prestigious award between the SCEA and RD deadlines.</p>
<p>It is perfectly acceptable to ask the interviewer questions. This interview is for you as well - to talk to someone who can give you primary answers to your questions about Yale. This should be a conversation. My interviewers always ask me if I have questions for them. </p>
<p>As for changing to SCEA, I think you should wait until the interview, and let the interviewer know about your possible change. All you have to do then is email the admissions office about your request (preferably before Nov 1).</p>
<p>The answer D was given by her GC about applying EA or RD was answer the question "Is my application the best it is going to be?". For D, she was told to go for it. Her rank is 1, 4.0 etc. It will not be better in January. I think the only thing she could continue to raise are her score - but she is so sick of them that will not happen. Her essay are done AND there is no school that she is going to regret giving up their early application for Yale's SCEA.</p>
<p>Now, another student in the school is applying to a different Ivy and was told NOT to do the EA/ED. GC's advice to this student was to wait because her grades etc are lower. He felt that she made a better applicant if she worked hard the first two semesters and would have those strong grades added to her profile.</p>
<p>So, if you are an equally prepared applicant now vs Jan AND don't mind giving up EA/RD to other schools, then go for it.</p>