Re: ED?

[Dave Killoran]

I'm an international applicant. LSAT score is 170 and CAS transcript evaluation is "superior". I've seen the PowerScore blog post that talks about schools with an ED penalty/boost, but in my specific circumstances, I'm wondering if applying ED to my one of my top schools (either NYU or CLS) would be beneficial?

It really depends on how you define "beneficial." Do you mean just as an opportunity to get in? Or do you mean to get in and get the best financial offer? As for the former, you note that you've seen our article which shows Columbia having no impact from ED, and NYU having a slightly negative one, so on this count it's not terribly important to apply to either as ED. Other schools give you more return if you go that route.

On the latter, it's harmful to apply ED. Unless it's a full scholarship ED program like Northwestern, you lose your ability to negotiate financials entirely. So, given that you clearly have a good shot at multiple schools, I'd be careful about ED unless money is no object at all.

Thanks!