The benefit we've experienced is priority number for choice of housing. We've actually paid several deposits simply to secure decent on campus housing options. But you have to do a littler research. Some schools' housing is by lottery -- so no benefit to pay the housing early.

I realize this is a good problem to have so no need for jokes, but are there any benefits from accepting a non-binding EA offer early that may be compromised by waiting until the regular admit deadline before accepting? I know about the FA reasons to wait so assume that is not in the picture, and obviously no child should accept early if there are major doubts, but are there ever other benefits to not waiting such as course selection, dorms, early programs senior year only for kids who have said yes (as opposed to all admitted students) etc.? Many thanks to anyone with real info / experience.