<p>Should one apply ED when they KNOW they want that college?</p>
<p>Or is it also acceptable to apply ED simply for the sake of boosting chances?</p>
<p>The former. Boosting chances is not a good enough reason to apply ED, because yes, you might get in, but you're committed to going there. I can't imagine a worse case of "buyer's remorse" than being locked into going to a school you're not sure about. If you're not sure that's where you want to be, don't commit yourself to it.</p>
<p>The main reason people do apply ED is they are confident that the school is #1 on their list. Know that others eschew ED in order to compare fin aid packages or to submit 1st semester Senior year grades to enhance the application.</p>
<p>If neither of the two hurdles I've mentioned to you exist, then ED is for you.</p>
<p>you will be spending the next 4 years at that college. Be sure you want to go there and don't just commit because it will boost your chances.</p>