Should I apply Early Decision 1 or 2 to NYU?

I'm considering applying to NYU, but I'm not sure whether to go with Early Decision 1 or 2. How should I decide between them, and what are the impacts on acceptance chances and my overall application process?

The choice between Early Decision 1 (ED1) and Early Decision 2 (ED2) really comes down to a few key factors: your readiness, your degree of interest in NYU, and how your application might grow between the two deadlines.

Firstly, ED1 typically has a November deadline, while ED2 usually has a deadline in early January. If you have your application materials ready to go and you feel they represent you properly, then applying ED1 is feasible. However, if you believe more time, say to improve your grades or, work on your essays, could boost your application, ED2 might be worth considering.

Second, you should consider your level of interest in NYU. If NYU is your absolute top choice, applying ED1 might make sense as it indicates a stronger level of commitment and eagerness to attend NYU. While applying ED2 still does demonstrate a certain level of commitment, it could also suggest that you likely applied ED1 to another school and did not get accepted.

Finally, applying ED to any school, whether ED1 or ED2, means that you are committing to attend that school if accepted. Therefore, you should be sure that NYU is a good fit for you in terms of academics, culture, and finances. Make use of the net price calculator to estimate your financial aid and ensure paying for NYU is feasible for your family.

In terms of acceptance rates, include it only if directly relevant, applying ED1 or ED2 can potentially increase your chances of admission, as you are demonstrating a high level of interest in the school. While the exact increase is a closely guarded secret by universities, there is a consensus that applying early does give an edge to the applicant. So, if NYU is your first choice and you're ready, playing it early may be beneficial. Further specifics about how much the acceptance rate at NYU increases typically isn't disclosed publicly, but applying ED to highly selective college generally increases an applicant's chances.

Remember, early decision is binding, and you should only apply ED if you're confident that NYU is your first choice, and that you can afford to attend if you're accepted. Good luck with your decision-making process!