Any insights on Cornell's early acceptance?

Hello! I've been thinking about applying to Cornell University and I'm contemplating applying early. Anyone here have any experience or insights into Cornell's early acceptance process? Do they give some sort of preference for early applicants?

Yes, applying Early Decision (ED) to Cornell can give you an advantage. The ED acceptance rate tends to be higher than the regular decision acceptance rate. However, please remember that ED acceptances are legally binding, meaning if you get accepted, you have to commit to that school, presuming that the financial aid package is satisfactory.

Cornell uses ED to build a portion of its class with students who have selected the university as their top choice, and to manage its yield. Therefore, students who apply ED are typically more likely to be admitted than students who apply in the Regular Decision (RD) round. Students applying ED should have strong applications as the pool is very competitive, since these are students who have identified Cornell as their first choice.

That being said, do not base your decision to apply early on the higher acceptance rates. Consider your academic profile, your college list, and make sure Cornell is your top choice. Furthermore, for some, financial aid can be a concern with ED applications. Therefore, before deciding to apply ED, make sure to try out their Net Price Calculator (https://npc.collegeboard.org/app/cornell) and ensure that Cornell is affordable for your family.

To note, the ED deadline is typically in early November, and decisions are announced mid-December. ED applicants are either accepted, denied, or deferred to the RD round. If you're deferred, your application will be considered again with the RD applicant pool, and you'll receive your decision in late March.

Best of luck with your application!