Well I have complete applications that are ready to submit, but they aren’t due until Jan. 1st. If I get into Vanderbilt (decisions come out dec.15), then there’d be no point in submitting them or spending the money, as ED1 is binding. I may get a more attractive aid deals from other schools, but Vanderbilt is a first choice school of mine. I am definitely open minded to going to other schools if I don’t get accepted.
@mec1026, your latest ACT puts you in the run, but remember lots of 34, 35, and 36 ACT’s get rejected so have the other schools ready just in case - regardless it sounds like you’ll end up with great choices.
Great job though, on the score.
I understand, but it just seems like you’re putting all your eggs in one basket-- possibly forfeiting a whole lot of financial aid if you don’t get into Vanderbilt.
My advice would be to submit a few more apps now-- say, 4, at $50 each-- to schools where you’re likely to get in and likely to receive significant aid. That way, should you not get into Vanderbilt, you’ll be in a better financial place.
I would absolutely hedge my bets!!
Having a son going through this a year ago, at the very least, get your supplemental essays for other schools ready. You have time (Jan 1 submit deadline), so you can schedule them out and give them the necessary time they deserve. Even if you feel they’re done, review them over the next month or so. Always room for improvement. At the highly selective schools, these really matter. They are read, trust me. Avoid complacency. I know it feels great to think you’re done with the application process. My S got essay fatigue, so his last few were not the quality of his beginners (even though he became a better writer along the way). Subsequently, had better results with his early applications. Worked out fine as he’s in a great place, but he shortchanged places like Vandy because he wanted to be done.