Deciding on schools for early decision application?

Hello everyone! I need some help deciding on which school to apply to for early decision. My top two choices are Stanford and UPenn for an engineering major. Will applying early decision improve my chances significantly at either of these schools? Is it worth the risk of being locked into one school? Any input would be greatly appreciated!

Hi there! It's great to see that you're interested in Stanford and UPenn for engineering! Applying early decision can indeed improve your chances of being admitted, as demonstrated by statistically higher acceptance rates during the early round at many schools. However, it's important to keep in mind that early decision is binding, meaning you agree to attend the school if accepted.

Before applying early decision, you should be sure that the school is an excellent fit academically, financially, and socially. It's crucial to have a deep understanding of each school's engineering programs and campus culture. I'd recommend taking virtual tours, attending online info sessions, and connecting with current students to get a better sense of what each school has to offer.

In the end, the choice of where to apply early decision should come down to which school you feel is the best match for your goals and preferences. If you're confident in your choice, applying ED can be a strategic move in the competitive admissions process. Good luck!