What's the process of applying ED to Duke?

So, I've set my heart on Duke. I've heard that applying ED can really make a difference in terms of acceptance rates? Is this true and how exactly does the Duke ED process work? Any pertinent dates I should keep a note of? Thanking you in advance for the help!

Applying Early Decision (ED) can indeed provide a boost to your chances of admission at Duke. Statistically, Duke’s Early Decision acceptance rate has traditionally been higher than its Regular Decision acceptance rate. But do remember that the decision is binding - if accepted, you're expected to enroll at Duke and withdraw all other college applications.Here's an outline of how the Duke ED process works:

1. Complete your Common Application or Coalition Application, and select "Early Decision" as your decision plan.

2. The expected deadline to apply ED to Duke is typically by November 1st. It’s the same common app you'd use for regular decision, but you would submit it much earlier and indicate that you're applying ED.

3. After receiving your application, Duke sends an acknowledgment email with directions on how to create a Duke Admissions account where you can check the status of your application.

4. The decision notification usually comes around mid-December.

5. If accepted, you'll need to withdraw all applications from other schools and confirm your enrollment at Duke.

6. You will also need to submit a nonrefundable deposit, which is usually due by the first week of January.

Remember that ED is a binding commitment, so only apply this way if you're sure that Duke is your first choice, and that you can afford it. Utilize Duke's net price calculator to get an estimate of what your financial aid might look like. If you are accepted ED and find the financial aid award is not sufficient, you will have the option to back out of your ED agreement. However, Duke expects families to have used the net price calculator prior to applying and families cannot negotiate their financial aid package.Good luck with your application! You're embarking on an exciting journey.