Early Decision disadvantages?

[ravupadh]

---

Members do not see this ad.

I was wondering why anyone would apply early decision if there are so many variables associated with it. Do you really hear back October 1st or can you hear back earlier if you apply very early? Also does it boost your chances of getting into the school in question? I am thinking about doing it but I'm not sure if I should from the things I've read on this site. I certainly do however really want to go to the school that I am thinking about doing EDP for since I am doing a SMP there and have taken two medical school courses.

 

[Ost3oclast]

I'm applying EDP to my state school for many different reasons mainly,what I expect of my mcat score. I took the MCAT. On 5/19 and wont have my score for a couple weeks but I can tell you that my average on aamc tests was 28. This is the average of accepted students at my state school. If I hit within two points of this score it will be the only MD school I am competitive at anyway. EDP applicants at my school are guaranteed interviews and they only get about 12 applicants through that program per year. Those facts, plus the fact that I have family within a couple miles, will graduate with less than 70,000 in loans and can live there for free really helps. Also, the school accepts 25% of applicants each year. 99% if those are in state students.....there were alot of factors that lead to my decision but those are the first few that come to mind.

 

[NickNaylor]

How about the fact that you may not get to resubmit your app to other schools until October if you get rejected? Unless you're a strong applicant that's a terrible disadvantage.

I would strongly urge you to talk with the admissions office at the school before committing to EDP. There is very little upside to you as an applicant to apply EDP.

(sent from my phone - please forgive typos and brevity)

 

[Ost3oclast]

I agree with nick. I talked with my school rep before I decided anything. However, if I score 30+ on the mcat I might not apply EDP and just apply broadly.

 

[passerine]

I don't think it's necessarily true that ED is just for "just another pre-med"... I applied EDP to my state school with a 34 MCAT and 3.8+ GPA, and the school's median matriculant scores are 3.7 and 28-29 MCAT. I chose to apply EDP because I knew that it was where I wanted to go, because it's my cheapest option, AND because I think I'm a reasonably competitive applicant there. I understand that there are also huge downsides to EDP, but I don't think that means it can only be a last resort. I agree though, it varies hugely depending on your personal circumstances, and is not a decision to be taken lightly.

 

[Captain Fantastic]

EDP is a big risk, no doubt. The successful EDP candidates commonly have two characteristics...

1) competitiveness, because the school is considering accepting you before they've seen what else is out there, so it helps to have a strong application. If your application is on the average or weaker side for a school then you'll really need...

2) a connection to the school, because without a connection why would you disadvantage yourself at every other medical school in the nation? That can mean a lot of things (home state, legacy applicant, spouse/s.o. there, etc.), but some sort of connection strengthens your chances with EDP, IMO.

 

[PostHaste]

EDP does have its place. It worked for me, but I fell into a very particular category. You can read my MDApps for more info about my story.