<p>snoopy, if you apply REA to Stanford and are rejected, you can’t apply again in the RD round for that same year. (This is the way it works at all colleges that have early programs, not just at Stanford.) That’s why there are so many threads on here about the various pros and cons of applying early; there is some strategy involved. Essentially, a candidate should apply REA if (1)s/he will present an extremely competitive application, with stats and other attributes at the high end of Stanford’s typical applicant pool; and (2) Stanford is his or her genuine first choice, since by choosing REA the applicant is giving up the chance to apply under other, non-restrictive early action programs. Hope that helps, and good luck.</p>