Should I apply early decision or regular decision to my dream school?

Hey guys, I'm a junior, and I have a dream school in mind that I'd really love to attend. I'm not sure if I should apply early decision or just go for regular decision. What are the pros and cons of each, and which one would you recommend? Thank you for your help!

Hi there! It's great that you're thinking ahead and planning your college application strategy. When it comes to applying early decision or regular decision, there are a few things to consider. Early decision is binding, which means if you get accepted, you have to attend that school. This can be a big advantage if you're absolutely sure that your dream school is the one for you, as it can increase your chances of getting accepted. Colleges tend to have higher acceptance rates for early decision applicants, and it also shows your enthusiasm for the school. However, the downside is that you might not get the chance to compare financial aid packages from other schools, and it might put pressure on you to make a decision before you're completely sure. Regular decision, on the other hand, is non-binding, allowing you to apply to multiple schools and compare financial aid offers. This can give you more options and flexibility in choosing the right school for you. Ultimately, it depends on your personal circumstances and how certain you are about your dream school. Best of luck with your decision, and I hope this helps!