Does anyone know the acceptance rate for Early Decision II at the University of Chicago? I'm weighing my options and want to get a sense of how competitive it is compared to other rounds.
While the University of Chicago does not publicly release the acceptance rate specific to Early Decision II (ED II), it's worth noting that applying in an Early Decision round (whether ED I or ED II) generally gives applicants an edge.
The exact acceptance rate for ED II can fluctuate year by year and is dependent on factors such as the size and strength of the applicant pool in that particular cycle. Historically, selective schools like the University of Chicago, have had higher acceptance rates in the ED rounds compared to Regular Decision because these students are showing a strong commitment to the school.
Though you should consider ED II as a way to potentially increase your chances of admission, remember that ED commitments are binding. Only apply ED II if University of Chicago is your top choice and you are ready to commit if accepted. Also, make sure that you have checked the financial viability of attending University of Chicago using the school's Net Price Calculator.
In the end, colleges are most interested in the overall holistic profile of each applicant. So work on polishing all aspects of your application to ensure that it portrays your most authentic and multifaceted self. This ranges from your academic performance (grades, test scores), quality and depth of your extracurriculars, the uniqueness and authenticity of your essays, and strong recommendation letters.
Remember, you go where you will thrive the most, not just where you have the best chances of getting in. Choose the application plan (ED II, RD, etc.) that aligns best with your academic, social, financial, and personal needs and goals.
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