Highly Selective Early Decision 2 (ED2) Schools to Know About
In the fiercely competitive landscape of college admissions, students are constantly seeking strategies to enhance their prospects of securing a spot at their dream institutions. One such strategy is applying through Early Decision 2 (ED2), a variant of the Early Decision (ED) application process. ED2 presents an opportunity for students to distinguish themselves in the application pool and potentially increase their chances of gaining admission to highly selective colleges and universities.
As the name suggests, ED2 is the second round of the early application process. Unlike the regular decision deadline, which usually falls around January 1, ED2 allows students to submit their applications shortly after the regular decision deadline. These applicants generally receive admissions decisions from the colleges in February, which is earlier than regular decision applicants, who usually hear back in March or April.
The fundamental concept underlying both ED1 and ED2 is the same: Students commit to attending the college if admitted, which admissions committees generally see as a strong display of interest. This commitment often leads colleges to admit a higher percentage of ED applicants.
One of the primary distinctions between ED2 and ED1 lies in the timing of application submission. While both ED1 and ED2 exhibit a student's commitment to enroll if accepted, ED1 applications are typically due in November, with decisions usually arriving in December. On the other hand, ED2 applicants have until January to finalize and submit their applications. This extended timeline might appeal to students who need more time to refine their applications.
Below are some highly selective colleges and universities that offer ED2.
University of Chicago
The University of Chicago is known for its rigorous academic programs and unique Core Curriculum that exposes students to a wide range of subjects. UChicago’s ED2 deadline is January 2, decisions are released in mid-February, and candidates' replies are due in early March.
Johns Hopkins University
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins University is known for its strong programs in the sciences and engineering. Johns Hopkins’ ED2 deadline is January 2, the decision release date is February 16, and candidates' replies are due by March 3.
Tufts University
Located in Medford, Massachusetts, Tufts is known for its strong programs in international relations and engineering. Tufts' ED2 deadline is January 4, and decisions are released in mid-February.
Swarthmore College
Located in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, Swarthmore College is known for its rigorous academics, extensive course offerings, and commitment to social justice. Swarthmore’s ED2 deadline is January 4, and decisions are released in mid-February.
Wellesley College
Located in Wellesley, Massachusetts, Wellesley College is an all-women’s institution celebrated for its empowering environment, strong liberal arts curriculum, and influential alumni network. Wellesley’s ED2 deadline is January 1, decisions are released by mid-February, and candidates' replies are due by late February.
Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis is recognized for its numerous research opportunities, flexible curriculum, and commitment to community service. WashU’s ED2 deadline is January 3, decisions are released by February 16, and candidates' replies are due by March 4.
Pomona College
Located in Claremont, California, Pomona College is a premier liberal arts institution renowned for its small class sizes and commitment to student-faculty interaction. Pomona’s ED2 deadline is January 8, decisions are released by February 15, and candidates' replies are due by March 1.
Vanderbilt University
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University is recognized for its strong programs in education, law, and medicine, as well as for its vibrant, diverse campus culture. Vanderbilt’s ED2 deadline is January 1, decisions are released in mid-February, and candidates' replies are due by March 1.
Claremont McKenna College
Located in Claremont, California, Claremont McKenna College is a small liberal arts college that is part of the Claremont Colleges Consortium. Claremont McKenna’s ED2 deadline is January 10, decisions are released by February 15, and candidates' replies are due in early March.
Bowdoin College
Located in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin College is lauded for its strong programs in the sciences, humanities, and the social sciences within a close-knit, engaged student community. Bowdoin’s ED2 deadline is January 5, and decisions are released in early February.
Harvey Mudd College
Part of the Claremont Colleges Consortium in California, Harvey Mudd College is a leading institution in engineering, science, and mathematics, fostering innovation and collaborative learning. Harvey Mudd’s ED2 deadline is January 5, decisions are released by February 15, and candidates’ replies are due by March 5.
Applying ED2 to highly selective schools can be a strategic move for students who are committed to enroll if accepted. These schools have slightly higher acceptance rates for ED2 applicants, making it an attractive option for many students. However, it is important to do research and make sure that ED2 is the right choice for you before applying. These highly selective ED2 schools are just a few of the many options available to students, and it is important to find the one that is the best fit for you academically, socially, and financially. If you’re looking for guidance in this process, the admissions experts at AtomicMind are here to help. Feel free to contact us, and good luck with your college admissions journey!