Schools might not admit it, but they will give breaks to wealthier students they won't give to poorer students. Find out about online financial aid resources in Money for School . An increasing number of selective colleges are taking a larger percentage of their classes from early admissions applicants. Because so many seniors apply to large numbers of colleges, admissions offices aren't sure how many students they admit will actually show up in the fall. This can cost millions of dollars if they guess wrong.
Early admission eliminates much of the guess work.
First decide whether you really want to go to that college. If you do, find out how many students are on the waiting list and how many openings still exist. Tell the school frequently you'll come if admitted. Try to find as many advocates as possible. Get letters from teachers, counselors, parents, friends.