Should you apply Early Decision?

Melanie Triebel
Melanie Triebel Posts: 10
edited December 13 in Pre-Law Success Community

Choosing between Regular Decision (RD) and Early Decision (ED) for law school is a big decision with some long-term implications. Here's a breakdown to help you decide what's best for you:

Early Decision (ED)

  • Pros:
    • Higher Acceptance Rates: Law schools often admit a larger percentage of their class through ED. This can be a significant advantage, especially for schools that are a bit of a reach.
    • Less Stress: You apply early, get your decision early, and if accepted, you're done with the whole process! No waiting months for responses.
    • Demonstrated Interest: Applying ED shows a strong commitment to that particular school, which can be viewed favorably by admissions committees.
  • Cons:
    • Binding Commitment: If accepted, you MUST attend that school. No changing your mind, no waiting for other offers.
    • Limited Negotiation: You'll have less leverage to negotiate financial aid or scholarships if you're already committed to attending.
    • One Shot: You typically can only apply ED to one school.

Regular Decision (RD)

  • Pros:
    • Flexibility: You can apply to multiple schools, compare offers, and have more time to make a decision.
    • More Time: You have extra months to work on your application, retake the LSAT (if needed), and perfect your personal statement.
    • Financial Aid Comparison: You can see financial aid packages from various schools before making a choice.
  • Cons:
    • Lower Acceptance Rates: Schools generally have lower acceptance rates for RD applicants compared to ED.
    • More Stress: Waiting for multiple decisions can be anxiety-inducing.
    • More Work: You'll need to complete more applications and manage various deadlines.

Here's how to decide what's right for you:

  1. Dream School? If you have a clear top-choice school and are confident you'd attend if accepted, ED might be a good strategy.
  2. LSAT Score: If your LSAT score is at or above the school's median, ED could increase your chances. If you're hoping to retake the LSAT to improve your score, or need time to get your LSAT score up into the admissions range for your target schools, RD gives you that time.
  3. Financial Aid: If maximizing financial aid is a top priority, RD allows you to compare offers.
  4. Application Strength: Is your application already strong? ED might be a good option. If you need more time to polish your application materials, choose RD.

No matter what you decide, make sure you research the specific ED policies of each school you're considering, as they can vary.

What questions do you have about when to apply? Let us know here, and good luck with your applications!

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