As of now I’m deciding between applying to these two schools’ early programs. I’m quite fond of each, and am (partially) basing my decision off of where I have a better shot at. Obviously Penn has a better acceptance rate–although it certainly isn’t a lock–and I would feel more comfortable applying there early for that reason. But…Yale has been my first-choice for a while, and I’m enamored with their programs for my major.
I’m asking if it’s reasonable for me to apply to Yale SCEA. Clearly no one can predict if I can definitely get in or not, that’s not what I’m asking, I just want to know if it’s realistic for me to apply. I don’t want to miss any opportunities with Penn, the worst case scenario being that I get rejected from Yale SCEA as well as Penn RD.
I like to say that there are two reasons for applying ED/EA: you have a hook and/or are showing interest.
You don’t have hooks, but you do have sincere interest in Yale. Also, ED programs are usually meant for your first choice college since they’re more binding than an EA application. Considering that Yale’s rate is lower, applying EA there would increase your chances to about Penn’s normal rate (Yale EA rate is 14.4% and Penn’s RD is 9.9%, whereas Yale’s RD is 6.7% and Penn’s ED is 25.3%).
The question to ask yourself is if you would rather boost your chances from 10% to 25% for your second favorite school and have a 7% chance for your favorite, or if you would rather boost the chances at your favorite college from 7% to 15% and have your second favorite be 10%.
If I were you, I would apply to Yale SCEA, and I know that you said part of your decision is where you have a better shot at. However, you make it sound like you’re applying to both anyways, so if Yale is your first choice, then it would make sense to try and boost that choice as much as possible.
Of course, the decision is up to you, and I wish you the best of luck with your college applications!