Where should I apply ED?

College Search & Selection
1

<p>I'm torn between Columbia and Cornell.</p>

<p>I don't subscribe to the idea of being in love with a school that you haven't attended yet, so that's out.</p>

<p>Want to study engineering physics/physics, with economics as a minor or second major, and French as a minor (some substantial ECs in this.)</p>

<p>International student needing <em>almost</em> full-aid.</p>

<p>SAT: 2200-2250
GPA: N/A, basically all As since the 9th grade. Might get one B in senior year, I'm a gap year student.
SAT IIs: 1600
ECAs: Decent enough. Comparable to the ivy/top 20 school admits from my country, however, no international awards/participation..some national ones. Mostly to do with math/science, community service, work experience, blah blah..all decent..compared to high ranked school admits form my country, not others.</p>

<p>So I know that chances are really low of getting into either. For engineering, the choice would perhaps clearly be Cornell, also given the fact that Cornell gives less aid to internationals, I might increase my chances of getting aid if I apply ED. </p>

<p>But given my other interests, and the fact that I LOVE the core curriculum (not the idea of one...but actually what we have to study on it), and the fact that acceptance rate is half of Cornell, Columbia seems like the better choice for ED.</p>

<p>In terms of fit, I guess I don't really see myself <em>belonging</em> in any school. I know I'd do ok wherever I go tbh.</p>

<p>So where should I apply ED? Columbia SEAS or Cornell School of Engineering?</p>

<p>Or Penn?</p>

2

<p>If you have to ask, then don’t apply ED.
ED is meant for applicants who are quite sure about their first-choice preference.</p>

<p>

What evidence do you have for that?
If you’re accepted, ED prevents you from comparing aid offers. Neither Columbia nor Cornell commits to meeting 100% of determined need for internationals. By applying ED, you are in effect removing any incentive for the college to compete with other schools for the most generous aid offer.</p>