<p>I think the acceptance rates really depends on the quality of the applicant pool. If the majority of the applicants are ones who normally would have no chance (sub par academics etc.) then they will accept less. If most of the applicants are all highly qualified, then they will accept more. But it is true, I have never heard a school encourage early decision more than Duke. At one Duke program I went to the admissions representative was practically begging students to apply early decision. I do not think the increase in applicants will change the admission standards for Duke.</p>