ED2 schools – Worth a Shot?

I'm a little bit stressed about my college applications and could use some advice. I've been going back and forth on whether to apply ED2 to some of my top choice schools. Is it worth it? Any advice on how to navigate the early decision process?

Applying ED2 can be advantageous, especially if you have a clear top-choice school that offers it, but it's important to remember that it's also a binding agreement (much like ED1), meaning if you're admitted, you're committed to attending that school, barring extraordinary circumstances such as inadequate financial aid.

Early Decision II (ED2) deadlines typically occur in January, giving you a bit more time to improve your applications or review your Early Action (EA) or Early Decision I (ED1) results if you applied in those rounds. This could be helpful if you were deferred or rejected from your ED1 or EA choice, or if you decided later in the application process that there's a school you’re ready to commit to.

One thing to note is that applying ED2 can also slightly increase your chances of acceptance at competitive schools. While it varies from school to school, on average, the ED acceptance rates are somewhat higher than Regular Decision (RD) acceptance rates. This isn't to say that the process is easier - the applicant pool is often very qualified, as these are students who have identified the school as their top choice.

As far as navigating the ED process, it's important to submit the best application you can, highlighting your accomplishments, strengths, and fit with the school. An ED application also communicates to the school that it's your top choice, which can play a small role in admissions decisions, since schools appreciate knowing that their admits are likely to attend.

Make sure to thoroughly research the school and ensure that it’s really the best fit for your academic and personal goals before you make the binding commitment.

Also, it's crucial to discuss this decision with your family, particularly around the topic of financial aid. If you need financial aid, use the net price calculator provided by the school to estimate your family’s contribution and ensure it's financially feasible. If the financial aid package offered doesn't cover what you need, then you would be released from the binding agreement, but it's best to avoid this situation where possible.

And lastly, don't let the decision to apply ED2 hinder you from working on your other applications. Stay on top of those, too, so that if you're not accepted in the ED2 round, you have already submitted solid applications to your RD schools.

Good luck! It's a tricky process, but with careful consideration and planning, you'll make the choice that's best for you.