Does applying early decision actually help?

Hi, guys! I'm trying to figure out if I should apply early decision to my dream school. Does it actually increase my chances of getting accepted? What are the pros and cons of applying early decision? Thanks for the guidance!

Hi there! Applying early decision can indeed help your chances of getting accepted, but it's essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. One of the main advantages of early decision is that acceptance rates tend to be higher for early decision applicants compared to regular decision applicants. This is because colleges like to fill a portion of their class early and appreciate the demonstrated interest of early decision applicants.

However, there are some potential downsides to consider. Early decision is binding, meaning if you're accepted, you agree to attend that school and withdraw all other applications. This might not be ideal if you're unsure about the school or want to compare financial aid packages from multiple colleges.

In the end, you should only apply early decision if you're sure that the college is your top choice and you're prepared to commit to attending. For example, a student who fell in love with a school, researched its programs thoroughly, and felt confident in their choice might be a great candidate for early decision. Best of luck in your college application journey!