Hello everyone, about 1/4-1/3 of the schools I am looking at are reaches for me, and I have conflicting opinions regarding whether or not I should be applying early to these schools. The one side says that applying early gives me a better chance of being accepted because less students apply early, and it shows interest. The other tells me that applying early will not allow me to showcase my senior year grades, because the admissions committee will not view them. In my case, my senior year grades are quite imperative, because this year contains my most rigorous schedule to date, and I have been preforming the best now out of my entire high school career. Any feedback is appreciated, thank you.
Example:
- Cumulative WGPA: ~3.75 (will rise with this marking period’s GPA).
- On-Track WGPA this marking period: 4.4-4.5.
I don’t think applying early, to the top schools, makes any difference in the outcome. If you think your academic profile can get better, I would apply later…of course, before the deadline:)
@fivesages thanks for the feedback, I’ll probably end up doing that.
There are pros and cons to both. Applying early SIGNIFICANTLY increases your chances but if you want to showcase your stats from senior year you can wait. However, if you are on the bubble I have heard the admissions office can call your guidance conselor and ask for your current grades. (I heard they do this for small top schools such as Hamilton, Dartmouth, and Haverford). Also, if you get deferred they can later accept you after seeing your senior year grades. Hope that helps!
You only get one RD 1 or SCEA “early” card. If you don’t play it, you lose out on significantly enhanced rates of admission. Most experts (and I’m no expert) will say to use your early card on a school you have a chance to get into and one that you would love to attend.
@rman0070 @preppedparent Thank you for the feedback.