<p>Some advice from a Techer for you. You know Caltech has ~900 undergrads right? I think it’s great that Caltech is your first choice, but I caution you, Caltech tends to be a school where “fit” is big issue. I recommend you apply to other good schools other than Caltech, even if you get in early. Once you get into your schools, then do some visits, and see which one you’re most comfortable. Caltech has a certain culture to it, and those who go there for only “prestige” don’t have much fun with that. </p>
<p>Apply when your essays and stuff are ready. If it’s soon enough for EA, then go ahead. It won’t really affect your chances whether you apply RD or EA. Your test scores are nice, but they really won’t do much in terms of differentiating you from your classmates here or at “that other place” or Stanford. I hope you have a lot of passion for science, demonstrated by research, awards, and/or essays.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>