This private research university is home to the oldest international relations school in the U.S., the Walsh School of Foreign Service. It’s also where the renowned McDonough School of Business is located. Georgetown offers over 60 majors on its campus, which is situated at the Potomac River and known as “The Hilltop.”

Forbes ranks Georgetown #22 in its list of top colleges in 2022. The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education ranks it #32, and U.S. News & World Report ranks it #22. 

Graduates of Georgetown have accomplished great things and become some of the world’s top thinkers, analysts, business professionals, and researchers. Some renowned Georgetown graduates include Bradley Cooper, Pat Buchanan, Jim Gaffigan, Patrick Ewing, Maria Shriver, and many others.

If you’re aiming to join this elite group, timing your application is crucial. You should apply for admission to Georgetown during the fall of your senior year of high school. Georgetown has two different application types: Early Action and Regular Decision. This means students should either apply in November for Early Action or in January for Regular Decision. Georgetown does not have an Early Decision application type. Georgetown’s Early Action application deadline is on November 1, with decisions released by December 15. 

The Regular Decision deadline is on January 10, with decisions released by April 1. Knowing these deadlines and preparing your application accordingly can give you the best chance of becoming part of this esteemed institution.

Video: How to get into Georgetown University

Key Takeaways:

• High Academic Standards: To be a strong candidate for Georgetown University, you need to maintain an almost perfect GPA and achieve very high scores on the SAT or ACT.
  
• Competitive Acceptance Rates: Georgetown has a highly competitive acceptance rate, with only about 11-12% of applicants being accepted in recent years.
  
• Holistic Admission Criteria: While academic performance is crucial, Georgetown also values extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and personal qualities such as curiosity, ambition, and resiliency.
  
• Required Standardized Test Scores and Interviews: All first-year applicants must also participate in an alumni interview, providing an opportunity to share additional personal insights and learn more about the university from a Hoya alumnus.
  
• Rigorous High School Curriculum and Extracurricular Involvement: Prospective students should take a challenging high school curriculum, including recommended courses for specific majors. 

Georgetown Application Help: What You Need

Video: HOW I GOT INTO GEORGETOWN | stats, ecs, essays, & advice

If you’re determined to join the list of prestigious Hoya alumni, you’ll need to work hard throughout high school and earn an almost perfect GPA. You will need to achieve very high test scores on the ACT or SAT, participate in extracurricular activities, and submit a flawless application. 

In other words, you’ll need to learn everything you can about how to get accepted into Georgetown and put it to good use starting early in high school. The best Georgetown application help is available to guide you through every step of your admission journey.

How to Get into Georgetown: What Is the Acceptance Rate?

Video: stats & tips: how I got into Columbia, UPenn, Brown, Georgetown, UCLA, Berkeley, and more!

For the class of 2025, 27,650 students applied and just 3,226 of them were accepted, giving Georgetown an overall acceptance rate for that year of 11.7%. The class of 2026 had just 3,229 students accepted for admission out of the 26,670 who applied, giving the school an acceptance rate for that admissions round of 12.1%.

Acceptance rates for some of the specific schools at Georgetown are as follows:

• Georgetown College: 11%
• McDonough School of Business: 12%
• School of Nursing & Health Studies: 13%
• Walsh School of Foreign Service: 15%

Even though the Georgetown acceptance rate isn’t as low as Harvard, Caltech, or other prestigious universities, it’s still extremely competitive. It remains one of the most challenging schools to get into.

Georgetown University Acceptance Rate for the Class of 2028

For the Class of 2028, Georgetown University had an acceptance rate of 12%, which represents a decrease compared to the previous admissions cycle. Out of a total of 26,170 applicants, only 3,226 were admitted. Here is a look at the acceptance rates for Georgetown University:

What Is the Early Action Acceptance Rate at Georgetown?

Students sent in 8,832 applications during the 2021–2022 admission cycle. Just 881 were invited to join the student body, giving the school its lowest acceptance rate in history at just 10%. While most other schools have early acceptance rates up to three times as high as regular decision rates, this is not the case for Georgetown. 

Georgetown Admission Help: ACT, SAT, GPA, and Class Rank

Admission officials at the university consider GPA, test scores, and class rank to be very important factors in their admission decision-making process.

Class Rank

The average class rank for students who were accepted into the Georgetown class of 2026 was reportedly 6%. In other words, most students accepted for admission had graduated in the top 6% of their high school classes.

What GPA Do You Need to be a Hoya?

Like most of the other heavy hitters in national universities, Georgetown does not report the GPAs of its incoming freshmen students. However, it’s safe to say that you’ll need to aim for at least a 4.0 if you want to stand out in the sea of other hopeful applicants. 

The university makes it clear that, while many non-academic factors influence admission decisions, applicants’ academic performances and histories are the most important ones. Other factors considered include demonstrated commitment to your community and personal qualities like curiosity, ambition, motivation, and resiliency.

What SAT and ACT Scores Do You Need to Get into Georgetown?

Georgetown does require applicants to submit their ACT or SAT scores as part of their application packets. While many colleges and universities have switched to a “test-optional” policy for admissions requirements, and others have permanently dropped test scores as a requirement, Georgetown still needs to see them.

Georgetown also does not permit applicants to do any self-reporting of scores, so you will need to have the College Board or ACT send official score reports to the university. 

If you are an applicant with no access to an open testing center, you will be required to fill out a form explaining why you could not take either test. In this case (and only this case), Georgetown encourages students to apply without test scores.

For the class of 2026, the SAT and ACT scores reported are as follows:

• The 25th percentile SAT score was 1370
• The 75th percentile score was 1530
• The class had an average SAT score of 1450
• The 25th percentile ACT score was 31 
• The 75th percentile ACT score was 34

It’s important that you know that the university considers scores for only the math and verbal portions of the SAT. The College Board discontinued SAT subject tests in 2001. Georgetown will consider the highest score on each section if you take the test more than once. 

In addition, for the ACT, Georgetown takes into consideration only the math, science, reading, and English portions in the review process. It does not use the new super score reports. Therefore, you must have all of your ACT scores sent to the admissions office.

Enrollment Trends and Notes for the Class of 2028

Georgetown University’s admissions process for the Class of 2028 showcased several notable trends and updates. Here's an expanded look at the key points:

Standardized Test Requirement:

• Unlike many peer institutions, Georgetown required the submission of SAT or ACT results for applicants in the Class of 2027 and Class of 2028.
• This requirement will continue for the Class of 2029, maintaining Georgetown’s commitment to standardized testing as part of their holistic admissions review.

Increase in Early Action Applications:

• Early Action applications for the Class of 2028 increased by 5% compared to the previous year.
• The acceptance rate for Early Action applicants dropped by 1.5%, reflecting increased competition among early applicants.

Diverse International Admits:

• International students admitted to the Class of 2028 hailed from 94 different countries, underscoring Georgetown’s global appeal and commitment to a diverse student body.
• U.S.-based admits represented all 50 states, highlighting the nationwide reach and appeal of Georgetown University.

Legacy Admissions:

• In past admissions cycles, legacy admits (students with family members who attended Georgetown) comprised 9% of those accepted.
• A group of current Georgetown students is advocating for the removal of the legacy admissions policy, suggesting potential changes in future admissions practices (stay tuned for updates).

Stability in Application Numbers and Acceptance Rates:

• The total number of applications received remained steady for the Class of 2028, indicating consistent interest in Georgetown despite broader fluctuations in higher education trends.
• Both the overall acceptance rate and school-specific acceptance rates remained relatively stable, suggesting that Georgetown maintained its selectivity and admissions standards.

Georgetown’s Global Presence:

• Georgetown continues to attract a diverse international applicant pool, with admitted students representing a wide range of cultural and educational backgrounds.
• The university’s commitment to fostering a global community is reflected in its diverse student body and international partnerships.

Competitive Early Action Process:

• The increase in Early Action applications suggests that more students are eager to secure an early spot at Georgetown, recognizing the advantages of applying early.
• The slight drop in the Early Action acceptance rate indicates that Georgetown is becoming increasingly selective, even in its early admissions process.

Legacy Admissions Debate:

• The ongoing debate about legacy admissions at Georgetown reflects broader discussions in higher education about fairness and equity in the admissions process.
• Changes to the legacy admissions policy could impact future applicant pools and the overall composition of admitted students.

Does Georgetown Require Interviews?

Unlike many of its elite university counterparts, Georgetown requires all first-year applicants to participate in an alumni interview. The only admissible reason for not participating is if there are no alumni available in your geographic region. 

With that being said, however, there are no interviews conducted on campus. The university does not ask applicants to travel to other cities or counties in order to have an interview. Therefore, if alumni interviewers are not available where you live, the requirement will be waived for you.

Georgetown assures that if this requirement is waived for you, it will not negatively impact your admission chances. If there are alumni in your area, you will be provided with contact information for an interviewer sometime between September and January. It will be your responsibility to make arrangements for your interview. 

The interview is your chance to share all kinds of information about yourself that you didn’t get the chance to share on your application. It’s essential that you use the opportunity to converse about your general thoughts and interests as a person. Don’t rehash information that was already included elsewhere on the written application.

It’s also your chance to learn about Georgetown from a Hoya alumnus. Have a handful of questions prepared ahead of time that you’d like to ask your alumnus to help you understand what the Georgetown experience is like.

What High School Classes Should You Take to Get Admitted to Georgetown ?

When it comes to your high school education, Georgetown is, above all else, interested in the rigor and quality of the work you have demonstrated in your classes. There are no cut-and-dry course requirements that will make or break an applicant’s chances of admission success, but the university has some recommendations:

• One year of natural science
• At least two years of social studies
• At least two years of language study
• Two years or more of mathematics
• Four years of English
  

In addition, there are certain recommendations for students who are planning on specific academic concentrations in college:

• Math or science majors should take three years of science and four years of math
• Nursing program majors need one year of biology and chemistry and three years of math
• Foreign service or language majors should have a background in a modern language or Latin
  

Students interested in the McDonough School of Business should take at least three years of math through advanced algebra trig. This is because calculus is required during study at Georgetown. In addition, two years of natural science are recommended, and at least one course in computer science during high school is ideal.

Does Georgetown Participate in the Advanced Placement Credit Program?

If you are able to take Advanced Placement examinations during high school, you should. Georgetown will award you college credit and course exemptions if you have qualifying scores on the AP exams. If you want to send your scores to Georgetown, you should do so via the Advanced Placement Coordinator in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions during the summer before you start classes on campus. The specific awards students receive from their test scores vary depending on the undergraduate school and the major students choose. 

But, what about Dual Enrollment Credit? Well, if you are taking joint high school/college courses, the university encourages you to apply as a first-year student. However, Georgetown will not award credit for any more than four courses.

What Extracurricular Activities Should You Participate In to Get into Georgetown?

Video: EXTRACURRICULARS THAT GOT ME INTO GEORGETOWN, UMICH, USC, & MORE

Georgetown wants to see an impact. The admissions committee looks for problem-solving skills and leadership. The number of extracurricular and community activities you participate in is far less important than what you did while active. 

College-bound high school students are always told that they need to be well-rounded to attract the attention of colleges, but that doesn’t mean they should sign up for a dozen different activities. 

Students should select and excel in a few high-quality activities that are important to them. They should also seek out leadership opportunities in activities that reflect their areas of study or interests whenever possible.

Georgetown is also interested in students who show a high quality of character and put it to good use in their spare time. The idea behind participating in extracurricular activities is not to show that you are more talented than other people. It’s to make a difference in your community and show Georgetown that you are innovative, reliable, and have a spirit of volunteerism.

Who Should Write Your Letters of Recommendation for Georgetown?

Georgetown allows high school teachers and counselors to submit letters of recommendation for applicants, but only one is required in general. However, it’s important to note that individual schools have their own requirements for admissions, and they often ask for additional letters of recommendation. 

Your letter(s) of recommendation should be written by a teacher who teaches a subject related to your particular area of interest. The teacher should know you well and be able to vouch for your academic abilities as well as your character.

Does Georgetown Consider Demonstrated Interest?

In short, no, Georgetown does not take demonstrated interest into account in any way that would influence its admission committee’s decision. Demonstrated interest would include making a documented visit to campus, meeting with admissions officials, participating in virtual campus tours, and talking with alumni.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t participate in these types of activities, though — you should! All of the above activities will help you gain an excellent grasp of the atmosphere that surrounds the campus and the school. It’s the best way to see if you’d be a good fit for the school and vice versa.

Yield Rate of Georgetown

Georgetown’s yield rate, which represents the percentage of accepted students who choose to enroll, was 48% last year. This rate is comparatively lower than elite institutions such as Stanford, Harvard, the University of Chicago, MIT, and Yale, all of which boast yield rates exceeding 70%. Additionally, schools like Pomona, Barnard, and Bowdoin have yield rates that are slightly higher than Georgetown's in this category.

Georgetown's Applicant Evaluation Process:

Georgetown University evaluates applicants based on a comprehensive set of criteria, emphasizing a holistic review process. Here are the key factors that Georgetown considers to be “very important” in their admissions process:

Rigor of Secondary School Record: Georgetown looks closely at the difficulty of your high school coursework. Taking advanced classes, such as AP or IB courses, demonstrates your ability to handle challenging material and your commitment to academic excellence.

Class Rank: Your rank within your graduating class is considered an indicator of your performance relative to your peers. High class rank can reflect consistent academic achievement throughout high school.

GPA (Grade Point Average): Your cumulative GPA is a crucial measure of your academic success and consistency over your high school years. A strong GPA indicates your ability to maintain high performance across various subjects.

Standardized Test Scores: Georgetown evaluates your SAT or ACT scores as part of the admissions process. These scores provide a standardized measure to compare applicants from different educational backgrounds.

Essays: The supplemental essays are a vital component of your application. They provide insight into your personality, experiences, values, and reasons for wanting to attend Georgetown. Crafting thoughtful, reflective, and well-written essays can significantly enhance your application.

Recommendations: Letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors who know you well are important. These letters should highlight your academic abilities, character, and personal qualities, providing a deeper understanding of who you are as a student and individual.

Talent/Ability: Georgetown values unique talents and abilities, whether in academics, arts, athletics, or other areas. Demonstrating exceptional skill or achievement in a particular field can strengthen your application.

Character/Personal Qualities: Personal attributes such as integrity, leadership, resilience, motivation, and ambition are highly valued. Georgetown seeks students who will contribute positively to the campus community and beyond.

Personalized Admissions Process

Alumni Interview: Unlike many other highly selective schools, Georgetown requires an interview with an alumnus. This adds a personal touch to the application process, allowing the admissions committee to gain a more nuanced understanding of your personality and fit for Georgetown.

Community and Personal Qualities

Demonstrated Commitment to the Broader Community: Georgetown appreciates applicants who have shown a commitment to their communities through service, leadership, or other forms of engagement. This reflects the university’s values and mission of fostering global citizens.

Resiliency, Motivation, and Ambition: Georgetown looks for students who have demonstrated resilience in overcoming challenges, strong motivation to achieve their goals, and ambition to make a positive impact. These qualities are seen as indicators of future success both at Georgetown and in your career.

Tips for Applying to Georgetown

Georgetown-specific application: Georgetown is not part of the Common Application system, meaning you will need to fill out their school-specific application and accompanying supplement. This additional step requires careful attention to detail to ensure you meet all the specific requirements and deadlines set by Georgetown.

Advanced coursework evidence: Georgetown places a strong emphasis on academic rigor, with over 70% of applicants submitting Advanced Placement (AP) exam results. This expectation means that you should aim to take advanced coursework throughout high school to demonstrate your ability to handle challenging material and succeed in a rigorous academic environment.

Mandatory interview: Every applicant must have an interview with a member of the 6,000-member Alumni Admissions Program. This organization is divided into 200 regional communities, significantly increasing the likelihood that you will be able to interview with someone near your location. The interview is an important component of the application process, providing an opportunity to showcase your personality and fit for Georgetown.

Interview timeline: Early Action interviews are prioritized through the end of October, so those applying for Regular Decision typically won't interview until November. Preparing for the interview is crucial, and you can find useful tips on what types of questions to expect and how to ask insightful questions on our blog, College Interview Tips. This preparation will help you make a strong impression during your interview.

No “demonstrated interest” consideration: Georgetown does not consider “demonstrated interest” in their admissions process, meaning you won’t be evaluated based on campus visits, contacting admissions officers, or attending information sessions. However, with the university's decreasing yield rate, it can still be beneficial to express if Georgetown is your top-choice school, as this can subtly convey your genuine interest.

Supplemental essays: Georgetown requires you to complete supplemental essays as part of the application process. For the 2024-25 admissions cycle, there are three prompts that all applicants must answer, along with one additional question specific to the school you are applying to. These essays are an essential part of your application, allowing you to convey your unique story, experiences, and motivations for wanting to attend Georgetown. Dedicate ample time and effort to crafting thoughtful and well-written responses.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

Now, what about the pitfalls to watch out for when you're putting together your Georgetown application? Think of this as your personal cheat sheet to avoid those "oops" moments:

Procrastination Station: Don't leave your application to the last minute! Georgetown's essays require thought and multiple drafts. Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and revise.

Copy-Paste Chaos: Georgetown uses its own application, not the Common App. Make sure you're answering their specific questions, not recycling essays from other schools.

The "Jack of All Trades" Trap: While it's great to be well-rounded, Georgetown wants to see depth in your activities. Focus on showcasing your passions and leadership rather than listing every club you've ever joined.

Test Score Slip-ups: Remember, Georgetown requires official test scores sent directly from the testing agency. Don't forget to send these well before the deadline!

Interview Ignorance: Don't skip out on the alumni interview! It's required (unless there are no alumni in your area), and it's a great chance to show off your personality.

Recommendation Rush: Give your teachers plenty of time to write your letters of recommendation. Last-minute requests often result in generic letters that won't help your application shine.

Conclusion

If your dream is to become a Hoya but you fall short in one of the critical areas the university considers very important, you’ll need a hook to achieve that dream. Make sure you have a rock-solid application and have written compelling answers to the essay prompts you receive with your application. 

You will be required to answer three essay prompts and one additional prompt specific to the school you are interested in joining. The prompts ask you to talk about special talents or skills you have, discuss an activity in which you’ve been involved, and write a personal description of yourself.

Get started by learning everything possible about how to get accepted into Georgetown, and get as much Georgetown application help as you can. If you’re able to visit the campus, do so. You will need to have a standout transcript by the time you graduate from high school if you want to join the next class at Georgetown University.

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FAQs

Is it hard to get into Georgetown University?

In a word: yes. Georgetown is one of the most selective universities in the United States. With an acceptance rate of around 12% for the Class of 2022, it's definitely a rich school for most applicants. But don't let that discourage you! If Georgetown is your dream school, it's worth putting your best foot forward. Remember, they're looking at more than just your grades and test scores – they want to see what makes you unique.

Does Georgetown have a lot of international students?

Georgetown prides itself on its global outlook, and that's reflected in its student body. About 9% of the undergraduate population is made up of international students. That's a significant number, representing students from over 90 countries! So if you're an international student, you'll definitely find a diverse and welcoming community at Georgetown.

What is the lowest GPA accepted to Georgetown?

Georgetown doesn't publicly disclose the lowest GPA they've accepted, and for good reason – they look at applications holistically. However, we can tell you that the vast majority of admitted students have very high GPAs. About 87% of enrolled first-year students were in the top tenth of their high school class. While there's no official minimum, you'll be most competitive with a GPA of 3.75 or higher.

How much is Georgetown Tuition?

Brace yourself – like most top-tier private universities, Georgetown isn't cheap. For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition is $64,896. When you factor in room and board, books, and other expenses, the total cost of attendance is estimated at around $84,000 per year. However, don't let sticker shock deter you! Georgetown is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, and about half of undergrads receive some form of financial aid.

 Additional Resources

Interested in extracurriculars that can strengthen your application? Explore 40 Internships for High School Students and 40 Incredible Research Opportunities for High School Students.

Want to ensure you get the best support for your college applications? Learn the 10 Dos & Don’ts When Hiring an Admissions Coach and check out our 15 Pro Tips for Finding University Admissions Counselors in 2024.

The post How to Get into Georgetown University – 2025 Ultimate Guide appeared first on Empowerly.

Located in Los Angeles, USC draws tens of thousands of applicants for admission every year. Competition for entry to the prestigious school is fierce, and the acceptance rate for USC is one of the lowest in the country.

If you’re determined to join other hopeful applicants on the USC campus, you’ll need to know how to get accepted into USC, what the admission committee looks for in applications, and how you stack up against students who have already been accepted. In this article, we’ll tackle those and give you the needed edge so you can get into USC

How to Get Into USC: 10 Tips

1. Focus on Academic Excellence

Your grades and academic record are crucial when applying to USC. The admissions team at USC looks for students who have excelled academically, particularly in challenging coursework like Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes. 

Maintain a strong GPA, especially in core subjects such as math, science, and English, to demonstrate your intellectual abilities. Showing that you can handle rigorous coursework will signal to USC that you’re prepared for the academic challenges ahead.

In addition to maintaining high grades, class rank and the competitiveness of your school can also play a role. If your school offers limited advanced courses, don’t hesitate to take advantage of online classes or summer programs to enhance your transcript. 

USC wants to see that you’ve pushed yourself beyond the basics, so aim for academic enrichment opportunities that show you’re committed to learning and growth.

2. Stand Out with Your Extracurriculars

USC looks for well-rounded students who contribute to their communities, excel in leadership, and pursue their passions. While academic success is important, extracurricular activities are just as vital. 

Focus on meaningful involvement in clubs, organizations, sports, or other interests that align with your goals. Quality is more important than quantity, so make sure you’re truly committed to a few key activities.

Leadership positions, volunteering, and consistent participation in activities demonstrate your dedication, responsibility, and ability to make a difference. When applying, highlight any leadership roles, awards, or special projects that illustrate your unique contributions and how you made an impact. 

USC values individuals who are proactive and take initiative, so your extracurriculars should reflect your drive and passion for making a difference.

3. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your chance to show USC who you are beyond your grades and activities. Use this opportunity to tell a story about yourself that reflects your unique qualities, experiences, and aspirations. 

USC values authenticity and creativity, so don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and share personal challenges or triumphs that shaped you.

The key to a standout personal statement is to tie your experiences to why USC is the perfect fit for you. Research the programs, resources, and opportunities available at USC that align with your goals. 

This shows that you’ve thoughtfully considered how USC will help you achieve your academic and personal aspirations, making your application more persuasive and convincing.

4. Demonstrate Interest in USC

Showing genuine interest in USC can set you apart from other applicants. Attend campus tours, information sessions, and engage with current students or alumni if possible. USC values applicants who have made an effort to understand the school’s culture and community. 

By interacting with USC representatives, you’ll gain insights into what makes the university unique and can tailor your application accordingly.

Another way to demonstrate interest is by participating in USC-specific programs, such as summer courses or workshops. Mentioning these experiences in your application shows that you’re not only familiar with USC but are genuinely excited about becoming part of its academic community. 

This level of enthusiasm can give you a competitive edge, proving to admissions officers that you’re a good match for their campus.

5. Emphasize Your Leadership Skills

USC seeks students who are not just followers but leaders, both in their academic pursuits and their extracurricular activities. Leadership doesn’t necessarily mean holding a formal position. It can also mean spearheading a project, organizing an event, or simply taking initiative in collaborative environments. Think about times when you’ve inspired others, managed a team, or solved a problem creatively.

In your application, focus on providing examples of when you’ve exhibited leadership qualities. Highlighting your leadership in varied contexts—whether it’s academic, community service, or a passion project—will demonstrate that you have the drive to make an impact. USC is drawn to applicants who will actively contribute to the campus culture and take on leadership roles in the future.

6. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

A well-written recommendation letter can strengthen your application by providing insight into your character, work ethic, and potential. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to both your academic abilities and personal strengths. Teachers, coaches, or mentors who have worked closely with you and witnessed your growth over time are ideal.

Give your recommenders ample time and provide them with any information they may need, such as your achievements, goals, or resume. The more personal and detailed their recommendation, the better. Strong recommendations from trusted adults who can vouch for your academic commitment and leadership qualities will reinforce your application in ways that go beyond your own words.

7. Highlight Your Fit with USC’s Values

USC prides itself on fostering a diverse, inclusive community. When preparing your application, make sure to convey how your values and experiences align with USC’s mission and culture. Show that you’re not just applying to USC for its prestige, but because you’re genuinely interested in contributing to its vibrant campus life and academic rigor.

This can be done through your essays, interviews, and interactions with USC representatives. Highlight the ways in which you’ve demonstrated resilience, collaboration, and an openness to new perspectives. USC values students who seek to broaden their understanding of the world and contribute to their community, so be sure to emphasize your alignment with these ideals.

8. Perform Well on Standardized Tests

While USC has made standardized testing optional, a strong SAT or ACT score can still enhance your application, especially if your GPA or extracurriculars are less competitive. High test scores demonstrate that you have the academic foundation to thrive in USC’s rigorous environment. Aim for a score within or above USC’s average range to make your application more competitive.

If you decide to submit test scores, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly. Take practice tests, enroll in prep courses, or work with a tutor to improve your performance. A solid score can provide extra assurance to the admissions team that you’re well-prepared for the academic challenges at USC.

9. Get Involved with Your Community

USC appreciates applicants who are actively engaged in their communities and committed to making a positive impact. Volunteer work, social activism, or community service projects can be strong additions to your application. Not only does this show your compassion and leadership, but it also demonstrates your ability to work collaboratively with others toward a common goal.

When discussing your community involvement, focus on the personal impact these experiences had on you. Share how they shaped your worldview, taught you new skills, or inspired your future ambitions. The more genuine your commitment to your community, the more convincing your application will be to USC.

10. Prepare for the Interview

If you are selected for an interview, it’s a great opportunity to further showcase your personality and enthusiasm for USC. Be ready to discuss your academic interests, extracurricular activities, and why USC is your top choice. Prepare thoughtful questions that show you’ve done your research about the university and its programs.

During the interview, it’s important to convey confidence and authenticity. Be yourself, and don’t hesitate to share personal stories that reflect your passion for learning and growth. The interview is your chance to make a lasting impression, so use it to demonstrate that you’ll be a valuable addition to the USC community.

Video: HOW TO GET INTO THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA: 3 TIPS (USC)

How USC Evaluates Applications

According to the most recent data from USC admissions, the admissions committee considers certain factors to be “very important.” These include:

• Application essay
• Standardized test scores 
• Letters of recommendation
• GPA
• Rigor of high school courses 

The University of Southern California considers the following factors to be “important”:

• Talents and abilities
• Character traits and personal qualities
• Extracurricular activities

The following factors are “considered”:

• Legacy (whether a parent attended USC)
• First-generation student status
• Racial/ethnic status
• Work experience
• Volunteer status

Several factors are “not considered” at all, including: 

• State of residence
• Class rank
• Demonstrated interest
• Religious commitment/affiliation
• Interviews

Understanding the factors that influence reviewers can help set you up for success when you’re seeking USC application help.

Video: USC Admissions Officer answers DETAILED questions about college application process!

The USC Acceptance Rate

For its most recent incoming class, USC received 69,062 applications and admitted just 8,304 students, for an acceptance rate of just 12%. As you can see, it’s not easy to get invited to join the student body at this school. Of those students who were accepted, 3,420 ended up enrolling. 

The USC admission process is clearly very selective. Your personal chances of success lie in the strength of your profile. How does your profile measure up against the students USC has already accepted?

To find out, you’ll need to look at the GPAs, test scores, and other factors that make up the overall student profile of USC’s most recent incoming class.

What GPA Do You Need to Get into USC?

The freshman class entering the university for the fall 2022 term had impressive GPAs. The school reports that the middle 50% average GPA range was 3.82–4.0 (unweighted). In other words, 50% of the incoming class had GPAs within this range.

Your GPA is a key component of what USC will use to determine whether you receive an invitation to attend or a “thank you for your interest” letter. Since 3.91 is the average GPA of the most recent class and more than a quarter of the students have GPAs of 4.0, you need to aim high. Very high.

Most of the top schools in the nation, including USC, use the Academic Index (AI) tool to streamline the process of selecting students for admission. This index takes into account the entire academic performance of a student and is represented by a single number. 

USC uses the AI number to filter the applicants who are qualified from those who are not. This academic baseline is the first “hurdle” to pass when seeking admission to USC.

As your high school career advances, it becomes more difficult to improve your GPA if it’s low, so make sure to get an early start by doing your best and keeping your GPA up. It’s much more difficult to bring up your GPA than to start it off on a high note and maintain it.

Video: Asking USC Students How They Got Into USC | GPA, SAT/ACT, Clubs, etc.

What SAT or ACT Scores Do You Need for USC Admissions?

Test scores are “very important” to the admission team at the University of Southern California. Mid-range scores for students are 30–34 (ACT) and 1360–1510 (SAT). While any score within these ranges is good, the higher you score, the better your chances for admission. 

USC takes the highest scores for each section of the ACT and the SAT, even if you achieved those scores during different sittings. Therefore, you should aim to take the tests (one or both of them) multiple times. 

Over the last couple of admission rounds, USC made test scores optional due to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are planning to apply during a time when testing is optional, you should still submit your test scores. 

Applicants who submit their scores tend to be accepted at higher rates than those who skip this step. Of course, if you are applying during a time when testing is not optional, you must submit your scores no matter what. 

If you score above the 25th percentile on your SAT or ACT, you should definitely submit your score, even if test scores are optional. These are test scores above 1360 on the SAT or above 30 on the ACT.

USC Application Help: What Classes Do You Need to Take in High School?

Throughout your high school career, whenever you have the opportunity to take higher-level courses, do it. Enroll in as many AP, IB, and honors courses as you can, because the USC admissions team looks at course difficulty as one of the main factors for admissions consideration. 

It doesn’t matter which type of courses they are; colleges like USC want to see that you accept challenges and that you don’t take the easy way when a more challenging one is available. 

Make sure you do well in these courses. It won’t help if you sign up for six different honors courses in a year only to struggle to get Cs in them all. You will need to earn mostly As in all of your classes.

High school students who are invited to attend elite schools such as USC usually complete between five and eight AP classes during their high school career.

While there is no list of specific classes required for admission to USC, the school does recommend that students take the following:

• Four years of literature and English
• At least three years of math
• Two to four years of a foreign language
• Two to four years of laboratory science
• Two years of history and social science
• Three years of academic electives

The university expects you to have earned a grade of at least a C in your math classes, including advanced algebra. When it comes to how to get into USC, keep in mind that the school strongly recommends that students take math beyond advanced algebra when possible.

How to Get Accepted into USC: Do You Need Teacher or Counselor Letters of Recommendation?

Another important part of your USC application is the recommendation letter. This letter is meant to highlight your contributions to the classroom as well as your academic success, which will predict to a certain degree how well you’d fit in at USC. 

Your letter should be written by a teacher or counselor who can attest to your attributes, skills, academic prowess, and innovative spirit both in and outside of school.

USC recommends that you submit only one letter of recommendation. The exception to this is if you are applying to the School of Cinematic Arts, in which case you will need two letters of recommendation.

What Extracurricular Activities Should You Do to Prep for USC?

Extracurricular activities can carry significant weight in your application, but it’s not enough to just “do something.” The admissions committee wants to see that you have earned achievements or taken on a leadership role within those activities. Leadership roles can seriously boost your chances.

Focus on a spirit of volunteerism and community service, and don’t be afraid to seek opportunities to improve your neighborhood. 

It’s not the number of activities you participate in that will impress USC; the quality of activities and the difference you make in them has a much larger impact. Join a few high-quality groups and focus on those that pertain to your specific interests and/or area of study.

USC Application Help: The Essays

Your academic application essays need to be engaging because they are one of the best ways to separate yourself from the rest of the applicants. There are two required essays and one optional essay included on USC’s admission application.

Remember that USC considers these essays to be “very important.” The admissions committee is searching for applicants who have unique perspectives and stories. You need a captivating group of essays written in your voice that describe your experiences while highlighting why you’d be an excellent choice for attending USC.

It would be a mistake to rehash information that is already included in other sections of your application, so don’t waste your time (or theirs) repeating yourself. Instead, use the opportunity to show that you’ve done some research on the school and know what it’s about. Convince the committee that you’d make great contributions to the university.

Does USC Require Admission Interviews or Track Demonstrated Interest?

USC does not track demonstrated interest. This means your application is neither helped nor hindered if you have (or haven’t) visited the campus, taken virtual tours, or connected with USC through social media. 

In addition, while many other universities either require interviews or offer them on an optional basis, USC does not conduct alumni interviews as part of the admissions journey. 

However, the school encourages all potential students to visit the campus, meet with admission counselors, participate in an official tour program, or go on a self-guided tour of the campus.

There are many opportunities throughout the year to discover USC, and these can provide immeasurable benefits to applicants. 

How to Show You’re a Perfect Fit for USC

USC isn't just looking for students with strong academics—they want to see how your values align with the university’s mission. USC is all about fostering global leaders who are ready to make an impact through research, innovation, and public service. 

In your essays and extracurriculars, you should highlight moments where you’ve demonstrated leadership, collaboration, or a commitment to making a positive change in your community. Whether it's leading a school project, organizing a fundraiser, or taking part in a service trip, showing your ability to lead and inspire others will resonate with USC’s admissions team.

It's also important to understand and reflect USC’s specific values in your application. USC’s mission revolves around research with human impact, which means they are looking for students who think beyond themselves and their achievements. 

They want individuals who care about the broader world and who will leverage their talents to benefit society. Make sure to illustrate how your goals align with USC’s mission by discussing any research, public service, or leadership experiences that reflect your desire to make a difference.

How to Ace USC’s Supplemental Essays

USC’s supplemental essays are a golden opportunity to show who you are beyond your test scores and transcripts. The university wants to hear about your academic interests and why you want to pursue them at USC specifically. 

You’ll need to go beyond generic statements—dive into specific programs, professors, or research opportunities that excite you. Show that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely passionate about what USC has to offer. Craft your responses with authenticity, and use personal stories to illustrate your academic and personal growth.

One of the most important aspects of writing a standout essay is making a connection between your experiences and how you’ll contribute to USC’s community. Be sure to reflect on what makes you unique—whether it's a personal passion, leadership experience, or a challenge you've overcome—and tie it back to USC’s mission and values. 

Tailor each essay to highlight your fit with the university and how you’ll take advantage of specific resources to achieve your goals. Authenticity and research are key to crafting an essay that resonates with admissions officers.

USC Application Help: Should You Apply Early Action or Regular Decision?

USC offers two application options: Early Action and Regular Decision.

Early Action

The application deadline for the Early Action (EA) option is November 1, and applicants will receive a decision in mid-to-late January. This option is non-restrictive and non-binding; however, it’s not available to students who will major in something that requires the submission of an audition or portfolio.

If you want to be considered for USC Merit Scholarships, you need to apply for Early Action unless the major you are interested in pursuing doesn’t participate in the EA option.

Regular Decision

The deadline for applicants who are using the Regular Decision option is January 15. However, majors that require an audition or portfolio have a deadline of December 1. 

There are also some additional requirements for various programs, and applicants who submit their applications by December 1, regardless of their majors, will be considered for USC Merit Scholarships.

Therefore, it’s strongly recommended that, unless you are applying Early Decision, you have everything submitted to the university before that December 1 deadline. 

USC has innumerable opportunities for students who are a great fit for the campus. Make sure you know everything there is to know about how to get accepted into USC so you can make your dreams of becoming a Trojan come true

Work With Us!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today. 

Additional Resources

• College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed is essential reading for anyone looking to polish their USC application with expert strategies and advice.
• If you're wondering about your GPA, you can explore The Top 25 Colleges and Universities that Accept a 3.4 GPA to see where you stand in comparison to USC's requirements.
• Crafting a standout essay can make all the difference. Check out Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics to inspire your personal statement and set your USC application apart.

The post How to Get into The University of Southern California (USC) appeared first on Empowerly.

However, not all schools use the same grading scale, and understanding where you stand is essential, especially when applying to colleges or even job opportunities that require a standardized GPA format.

Whether your school uses a percentage scale, letter grades, or something else entirely, converting your GPA to a 4.0 scale is crucial for comparing your performance across different grading systems.

Converting Your GPA to a 4.0 Scale: Step-by-Step

Most colleges in the U.S. use the 4.0 GPA scale to evaluate students’ academic performance. If your school uses a different system, follow these steps to convert your GPA into the widely accepted 4.0 format.

Step 1: Understand Your Grading Scale

First, determine the grading system your school uses. Common scales include letter grades (A, B, C), percentage grades (0-100), or numerical systems. Each of these can be converted to a 4.0 scale with some quick calculations.

Here’s a table to help you understand how letter grades align with the 4.0 GPA scale:

Step 2: Identify Weighted or Unweighted Courses

Next, determine whether your GPA is weighted. A weighted GPA accounts for honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes, which add extra points to the GPA calculation. For example, an “A” in an AP course might be worth 5.0, while the same “A” in a standard course would be a 4.0.

Here’s how weighted and unweighted GPA values compare:

Step 3: Multiply Grades by Credit Hours

To calculate your GPA, you’ll need to multiply each grade’s GPA value by the number of credits for that course. For instance, if you earned a 4.0 in a 3-credit course, that’s 12 grade points (4.0 x 3).

Here’s an example of a GPA calculation for a student:

Step 4: Add and Divide

Once you’ve calculated the grade points for each course, add them together and divide by the total number of credits to get your final GPA.

For example:

GPA=39.59=4.39GPA = \frac{39.5}{9} = 4.39GPA=939.5?=4.39

Step 5: Use Trusted GPA Calculators

Manually calculating your GPA can be tedious, especially if you have multiple classes to factor in. Luckily, there are reputable GPA calculators you can use to streamline the process. Here are some reliable tools from top universities:

• California State University GPA Calculator
• Iowa State University GPA Calculator
• University of Kansas GPA Conversion Chart
• Penn State GPA Calculator
• Sam Houston State University GPA Converter

Final Step: Present Your GPA Accurately

Once you’ve converted your GPA to the 4.0 scale, ensure it’s accurate and aligned with any institution-specific guidelines. Some schools or employers may request that GPAs be rounded to one or two decimal places, so be sure to follow those instructions.

Video: GKS- HOW TO CALCULATE AND CONVERT RESULTS TO CGPA ON SCHOLARO

Why GPA Scaling Matters

When applying to colleges, admissions officers consider multiple factors—extracurriculars, essays, test scores, and, crucially, your GPA. Your GPA serves as a snapshot of your academic performance over time, but since different schools have different grading scales, your GPA alone might not tell the full story.

Understanding how GPA scaling works ensures you can accurately present your academic standing. It also helps you compare your performance with other applicants from schools using different systems, allowing colleges to assess your achievements on a level playing field.

The GPA Scale

During the freshman admission process, colleges and universities will consider numerous factors before accepting a college application for enrollment. In addition to extracurricular activities, standardized test scores, and college essays, admission officers look at your grade point average scores according to the official high school transcript. 

High schools or secondary schools and colleges typically use different grading scales. Therefore, as a student, your main goal is to focus on maintaining a high number on the GPA scale, regardless of the scale adopted by your school. How do you do this? By participating actively in class activities, taking tutorials, and acing your classes. 

Types of GPA Scales

There are two types of GPA scales, they are: 

1. Weighted
2. Unweighted

The two scales serve the same purpose, which is to provide an accurate representation of a student’s performance in their classes. However, they go about separate ways to represent performance based on course difficulty. 

In general, universities and colleges prefer a holistic overview of students’ academic performance. Therefore, an admission officer searches for good academic achievements for both unweighted and weighted GPAs. Nevertheless, let’s discuss the differences for your information.

Before converting your GPA, it's important to know the difference between weighted and unweighted GPA scales:

• Unweighted GPA: This is the most common GPA scale and ranges from 0.0 to 4.0. An "A" is typically valued at 4.0, while lower grades, like "B" or "C," decrease the value. This scale does not take into account the difficulty of courses.
  
• Weighted GPA: In contrast, a weighted GPA assigns extra value to more challenging courses like AP or honors classes. For example, an "A" in an AP class might be worth 5.0 instead of 4.0. This system rewards students for taking more rigorous coursework.

Video: There are different types of GPA- learn the difference

Getting Your GPA On a 4.0 Scale

There is quite a bit of calculation required to acquire your grade point average. Using the 4.0-grade scaling described above, you will need to multiply grade points for each earned score with each course’s unit (the course’s level of difficulty). 

When you are done multiplying all your courses with their units, you will have to add all the values together to get a total sum of your grades. Once you have this value, for the final step, you have to divide the total sum by the total number of credits your courses are worth. 

That is the formula for how to manually calculate your GPA grade on a 4.0-grade scale. This approach works for both weighted and unweighted GPAs. It can be exhausting to manually compute your GPA, especially if you have completed quite a number of courses in high school. 

Fortunately, there are college 4.0 calculators available online, which you can use to speed up the process. 

Commonly Accepted GPA Ranges for Top Schools

Top universities often expect high GPAs, especially weighted GPAs that reflect a student’s rigorous coursework. Below are the average GPAs of students accepted at prestigious institutions:

Remember, if your GPA doesn’t fall within the range of your target schools, other factors—like stellar test scores, essays, or extracurricular achievements—can still make you a strong candidate.

By following these steps, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to convert your GPA to a 4.0 scale, making it easier to present your academic record in the best light.You should also explore articles from Empowerly experts that will give you tips to prepare for an Ivy League college interview, in this case, an Harvard University interview.

Video: How Stanford Evaluates U.S. and International GPAs

Work with Our Councillors!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today. 

Additional Resources

• If you're exploring your college options, you might wonder, "What Colleges Can I Get Into with a 3.5 GPA?" and this guide provides great insight.
• When preparing your applications, "College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed" offers practical advice to increase your chances.
• It's important to understand the distinction between "Deferred vs Waitlisted" to manage your college admissions expectations.

The post  How to Convert Your GPA to a 4.0 Scale appeared first on Empowerly.

Whether it’s through cutting-edge research, leadership, or a commitment to service, this guide will walk you through what it takes to successfully navigate the application process and increase your chances of joining this elite institution. Ready to take the first step toward Hopkins?

10 Proven Strategies to Stand Out and Secure Your Spot at Johns Hopkins University

1. Ace Your Academic Performance

Johns Hopkins values academic excellence, so your high school GPA and course rigor are essential. Strive for top marks, especially in advanced classes like AP or IB. Competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.9 or higher, so aim to stand out academically by taking the most challenging courses available at your school.

Balancing extracurricular activities and maintaining a strong GPA can be tough, but universities like Johns Hopkins look for well-rounded students. Don’t sacrifice your grades for extracurriculars—learn to manage your time effectively so that both your academics and passions shine through.

2. Showcase Leadership in Extracurricular Activities

Johns Hopkins doesn’t just want straight-A students—they want future leaders. Join clubs or organizations where you can take on a leadership role. Whether it’s student government, debate club, or organizing a community service project, leadership shows your initiative and ability to make an impact.

It’s not enough to participate in many activities; quality beats quantity. Focus on a few that genuinely matter to you and where you can demonstrate growth and passion. This type of involvement is what admissions officers love to see.

3. Craft a Standout Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your chance to speak directly to the admissions committee. Tell your story in a way that reflects your personality, ambitions, and why Johns Hopkins is the perfect fit for you. Make your essay unique by reflecting on how your experiences have shaped your aspirations.

Avoid generic clichés or predictable narratives. Take time to craft a compelling narrative that makes you unforgettable. Be authentic and sincere—it’s your opportunity to make a lasting impression.

4. Obtain Strong Letters of Recommendation

Your letters of recommendation should come from teachers or mentors who know you well. Johns Hopkins values insights into your character, work ethic, and intellectual curiosity, so choose recommenders who can speak to your personal qualities, not just your academic performance.

Give your recommenders ample time and provide them with any relevant materials to help them write a comprehensive letter. A strong recommendation can differentiate you from other applicants by adding depth to your story.

5. Demonstrate Passion for Your Chosen Field

Johns Hopkins is a research-driven university, so demonstrating your passion for a specific field can be a huge advantage. Whether you’re interested in medical research, engineering, or public health, show your enthusiasm through related extracurricular activities, internships, or independent projects.

Admissions officers are drawn to applicants who have a clear vision for their future and have already taken steps toward it. Demonstrating a deep passion for your field will make your application more compelling and convincing.

6. Excel on Standardized Tests

While Johns Hopkins has become test-optional, submitting competitive SAT or ACT scores can still boost your application. Aim for a score that’s well above the national average—typically around 1500+ on the SAT or 34+ on the ACT.

Preparation is key, so make sure to dedicate time to studying. Consider taking practice tests or enrolling in test prep courses to maximize your score potential. A strong score can act as a reinforcement of your academic capabilities.

7. Engage in Meaningful Community Service

Johns Hopkins values students who are committed to making the world a better place. Engage in community service projects that align with your values and interests. It’s not just about the hours you log—it’s about demonstrating your dedication to contributing positively to society.

Admissions officers appreciate applicants who have used their time to make a tangible impact. Highlight these experiences in your application to show your commitment to civic engagement and the potential you have to make a difference at Johns Hopkins.

8. Attend Johns Hopkins Information Sessions

Attending a virtual or in-person information session can give you insights into what the university values in applicants. This is also an opportunity to demonstrate your interest in the school. Admissions officers notice when students take the time to engage with the school through these sessions.

These events give you a chance to ask insightful questions and learn more about the academic programs, campus life, and student opportunities. Showing a genuine interest in Johns Hopkins can be a subtle yet powerful way to boost your application.

9. Develop Strong Research Skills

Given Johns Hopkins’ reputation as a top research institution, developing strong research skills will set you apart. If you’ve worked on a research project—whether through school, a summer program, or independently—be sure to showcase that experience in your application.

Admissions officers are impressed by students who already have experience in conducting research and who can articulate what they’ve learned from it. This demonstrates that you’re prepared for the rigorous academic environment at Johns Hopkins.

10. Highlight Your Global Awareness

Johns Hopkins attracts students who are globally minded and interested in solving complex global issues. If you’ve traveled abroad, learned a new language, or engaged in international service projects, highlight those experiences in your application.

This demonstrates not only cultural awareness but also your ability to thrive in a diverse environment. Johns Hopkins looks for students who have the potential to become global leaders, and your international experiences can be a key factor in standing out.

Video: How I Got Into Johns Hopkins

Superscoring Strategy

Johns Hopkins utilizes a superscoring policy for both the SAT and ACT, which means they’ll take the highest scores from each section across all your test attempts and combine them to create your best possible composite score. 

This offers a major advantage if you’ve taken the test multiple times. Instead of worrying about hitting a perfect score on all sections in one sitting, focus on improving individual sections over several test attempts. For instance, if you scored high in math on one test and excelled in reading on another, Johns Hopkins will combine those top scores.

To make the most of superscoring, consider spacing out your test dates and preparing specifically for weaker sections each time. By zeroing in on areas where you need improvement, you can strategically raise your overall score without the pressure of acing every section at once. 

Submitting a competitive superscore—ideally around 1500+ for the SAT or 34+ for the ACT—could be the extra boost that strengthens your application and sets you apart from other candidates.

What Admissions Looks For

Academic Strength and Engagement

Johns Hopkins is interested in how well you excel academically and how you contribute to your learning environment. They’ll assess this through your transcripts, activities list, recommendations, and optional test scores. Show that you go beyond the basics in your studies by engaging deeply with your subjects and pursuing learning opportunities outside the classroom.

Leadership and Impact

Admissions wants to see the roles you’ve taken in various aspects of your life, whether through clubs, organizations, internships, jobs, or your local community. Highlight your initiative and leadership, showing how you’ve made a meaningful difference in your community. This will be evident in your activities list, recommendations, and essays.

Alignment with Hopkins’ Values

Johns Hopkins is looking for students whose values, goals, and aspirations match the opportunities they offer. This is assessed through your supplemental essay, personal statement, and overall application. Use these components to show how Hopkins is the right fit for you and how you can contribute to their dynamic campus community.

Johns Hopkins Application Help: Three Special Programs

Johns Hopkins offers three special programs for incoming students. When you submit your application, you will have the opportunity to apply for one of them.

The Peabody Double Degree Program: This program allows students to earn two degrees: a bachelor’s degree in music from the Peabody Institute and a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science from Johns Hopkins.

Direct Matriculation Programs: With the Direct Matriculation Programs, Johns Hopkins University offers qualified students the opportunity to be admitted to one of two different master’s programs (International Studies or Global Health Studies) along with admittance to the undergraduate program.

Woodrow Wilson Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program: This special fellowship program provides a maximum of $10,000 spread over the course of three years to certain Krieger School undergraduate students who are working to complete various independent research projects.

Johns Hopkins University Application Requirements

When you submit your completed Johns Hopkins application for admission, you will need to include the following:

• Either the completed Common Application or Coalition Application
• The Johns Hopkins supplemental essay
• Two letters of recommendation from teachers
• One letter of recommendation from your school counselor
• Your high school report, including student profile and full transcript
• A midyear report (due in mid-February), including an updated transcript
• SAT or ACT scores

You must also decide whether you will apply using the Early Decision program or the Regular Decision round. The Early Decision I application deadline is November 1, with a notification date of around December 16. For Early Decision II, the application deadline is January 3 and the notification date is around February 17.

It’s important to be aware that if you are accepted for either of the Early Decision rounds, your decision is a binding contract to attend the university. Therefore, use the Early Decision options only if you are absolutely sure that Johns Hopkins is the university you want to attend. 

What Is John Hopkins’ Acceptance Rate?

Early Decision applicants have an acceptance rate about three times higher than the overall acceptance rate. For the class of 2026, there were 37,150 early and regular decision applications submitted, and just 2,408 (6.5%) applicants were offered admission to the prestigious university.

The university received 31,650 regular applications, from which 1,586 were accepted (a 5% acceptance rate). Out of the 5,500 Early Decision applications, 822 were accepted (an acceptance rate of 15%).

What Extracurricular Activities Should You Do to Get In?

Over 90% of incoming students for the class of 2026 had internships, part-time jobs, or summer jobs, and 34% had been involved in student government. Like other selective universities across the U.S., Johns Hopkins is looking for well-rounded individuals, but there’s no singular formula it follows to distinguish who those students are. 

One thing is certain — Johns Hopkins isn’t as interested in the number of activities you participate in as it is in the caliber of those activities. 

Your activities should reflect what you truly enjoy, first of all. The school is also looking for students who display leadership in their activities and have made a positive impact on groups outside of the classroom.

It won’t help you to sign up for everything you can find; instead, focus on a few activities that solve problems in the community, provide leadership opportunities for you, and accurately reflect your interests.  

What GPA Do You Need to Get into Johns Hopkins?

Johns Hopkins holds a holistic approach to admissions — more than just numbers are considered when choosing students to join the next incoming class. This holistic approach focuses on talents, abilities, character, and how well a student matches the Johns Hopkins community.

Unlike many of the prestigious universities in the U.S., Johns Hopkins does report the average GPA of its incoming students. For the class of 2026, students averaged a GPA of 3.9 on a 4.0 scale.

In addition, 99% of admitted students graduated in the top 10% of their classes. It’s vital that the rigor of your high school courses is top-notch. If AP and/or IB classes are offered, make sure to take them. 

The admissions staff at Johns Hopkins is looking for students who rise to challenges and don’t settle for routine classes when more advanced ones are available. If your high school doesn’t offer AP or IB courses, see if there are any dual enrollment courses you can take that will display your commitment to higher learning.

What Are Johns Hopkins’ Testing Requirements?

Johns Hopkins University has adopted a test-optional policy through the 2025–2026 application year, so if you are applying for classes for the fall of any year through 2026, you won’t need to submit scores in order to be considered for admission. 

However, if you do take the tests and you feel that the scores you receive adequately reflect your academic character and ability, feel free to submit your scores. If you do not submit them, the university states that you will not be disadvantaged in the admission process.

The university considers your highest section scores across all sittings, even if they were on different dates. You’re encouraged to update your application with new test scores each time you score higher. In addition, you have the option to submit the SAT subject test scores if you wish.

The SAT scores for the middle 50% of members of the class of 2026 (who did submit them) were 1520–1560. The ACT scores for the middle 50% were 34–35.

Demonstrated Interest

Johns Hopkins University does not track campus visits or any other activities of demonstrated interest. Therefore, you will not help or hurt your application by participating in activities such as visiting campus or connecting with alumni or admissions officers. 

However, it’s never a bad idea to do those things! You can gain great insight into whether the university is the right fit for you when you take tours of the campus, participate in a virtual information session, and talk to the people who know it best.

Alumni Interviews and Letters of Recommendation

Johns Hopkins has ceased offering interviews with volunteer alumni. Therefore, it’s recommended that you place a heavy focus on the letters of recommendation that your counselor and teachers write for you. 

Well-written recommendations can do much for helping admissions officers get to know you on a deeper, personal level.

Johns Hopkins Essays

The essay prompt for the university can change from year to year, but it’s still a good idea to review some tips about what to include in different types of essays. 

For example, if an essay asks you why you chose Johns Hopkins, you should include some classic items and leave others out.

If you answer a “Why Johns Hopkins” essay, don’t fawn over the beautiful campus or state repeatedly that it has an excellent reputation and is top-ranked, because they already know all of that. Focus on you, not the school. 

Cite specific opportunities and programs you are interested in, and address the reasons you feel the school is a good fit for you. Also discuss the special interests, talents, and abilities you can bring to Johns Hopkins.

Other excellent items you could include in this type of essay are how the wide variety of international students offers a global learning experience, how excited you are about the 450 student organizations on campus, and how intrigued you are by the many opportunities to study abroad.

Interactive Admissions Checklist

Having a clear roadmap is crucial when applying to an elite university like Johns Hopkins. Here's a streamlined checklist to guide you through the process and ensure nothing falls through the cracks. Focus on each step, and you'll have everything covered well before deadlines hit. Start by confirming if you’re applying Early Decision or Regular Decision, as timelines will differ.

• Achieve a Strong GPA: Aim for at least a 3.9 or higher, prioritizing advanced courses (AP/IB) to show academic rigor.
• Prep for SAT/ACT (Optional): If submitting scores, aim for a 1500+ SAT or 34+ ACT. Consider taking multiple tests and using superscoring to your advantage.
• Engage in Tier 1-2 Extracurriculars: Focus on quality over quantity. Leadership roles or unique activities that demonstrate initiative are highly valued.
• Craft a Standout Personal Statement: Make sure your essay reflects your passions and aligns with JHU's values. Use specific examples of how you’ve made an impact.
• Gather Strong Recommendations: Ask teachers or mentors who know you well to write letters that highlight your character, academic ability, and leadership.
• Showcase Research or Community Projects: If you’ve participated in research, internships, or meaningful community service, be sure to highlight those experiences.

Video: Admissions Tips: How We Review Applications

Work With Us!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today. 

Additional Resources

• Enhance Your Application: To maximize your chances, consider following the College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed for expert advice on crafting a standout application.
• Understand GPA Requirements: Maintaining a strong GPA is crucial. Refer to The Top 25 Colleges and Universities that Accept a 3.4 GPA to gauge where you stand and how Johns Hopkins compares.
• Prepare for Standardized Tests: Excelling in standardized tests can significantly boost your application. Review the Average SAT Scores by State for 2024: The Good, Bad, & Ugly to understand the competitive benchmarks.

The post How to Get into Johns Hopkins University appeared first on Empowerly.

Duke University is notorious for consistently outranking some of its Ivy League rivals in more than one category, which means it’s also one of the country’s most coveted institutions of higher learning. With world-renowned professors and plenty of national championship NCAA basketball titles, Duke is highly selective with its admissions.

The university offers stunning gothic architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds surrounded by the excitement that a city like Durham, North Carolina, brings. Students enjoy plenty of green spaces on campus, such as Duke Forest and Sarah P. Duke Gardens. 

Students also frequent the Duke Lemur Center, which is the largest sanctuary for lemurs in the world. At the other end of the spectrum, Duke University also boasts advanced high-tech laboratories with nuclear MRI machines and free electron lasers. Students really can find it all on Duke’s campus.

Some notable alumni of Duke University include:

• Dan Abrams, journalist, class of ‘88
• Melinda Gates, co-founder of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, class of ‘86
• Ibtihaj Muhammad, Olympic fencer, class of ‘07
• Amy Hood, Microsoft CFO, class of ‘94
• Ken Jeong, comedian and actor, class of ‘90

To date, there are more than 160,000 Duke alumni scattered throughout the world. If you’re determined to join these prestigious ranks, you’ll need to take advantage of all the Duke admission help you can get.

How to Get Accepted into Duke University: The Numbers

If you intend to join this prestigious school’s student body, you’ll need to learn everything you can about how to get accepted into Duke University. 

It’s an institution that is consistently and notoriously ranked in the top 10 universities on countless lists. Forbes ranks it at number 9, the Wall Street Journal Times Higher Education puts it at number 5, and U.S. News & World Report ranks it at number 10.

There are currently 6,789 undergraduate students who currently attend Duke, and the professional school and graduate student populations are just shy of 10,000. For the class of 2026, the university received a whopping 50,008 applications for admission. 

The admissions committees accepted a mere 3,126 of those, and 1,738 students ended up enrolling. This gives Duke an acceptance rate of just 6.3%. The yield rate at Duke, which represents the percentage of students who actually enrolled divided by the number of admitted students, was 54%. In other words, that’s the percentage of accepted students who ended up attending Duke.

What GPA and Test Scores Do You Need to Get into Duke?

Like most of its elite counterparts, Duke University does not release information on the GPAs of its admitted students. However, it’s safe to say that if you want the best chance possible of gaining entry into Duke, you need to aim for at least a 3.9 unweighted GPA, if not a 4.0.

The average SAT score for Duke students of the class of 2026 is 1540, with the 25th percentile at 1510 and the 75th percentile at 1570. The average ACT score for incoming Duke students was 35, with the 25th and 75th percentiles holding at 34 and 36, respectively.

Following suit with several other universities, Duke University’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic includes making reporting SAT and ACT scores optional. This policy is planned to remain intact through the 2022–23 round of admissions for the class of 2027.

If you do take the tests and score very high, you should consider submitting those scores. However, if you do not take any tests or elect not to turn in the results with your application, you will not be penalized as long as the school is still operating under its test-optional protocol.

You should also know that 95% of freshmen who enrolled at Duke for the class of 2026 graduated in the top 10% of their high school graduating class, and 99% of students were in the top 25%.

What High School Classes Should You Take to Prepare for Duke University?

When it comes to knowing how to get into Duke, you must begin preparing years before you graduate high school. This is because you need to make sure that you meet the requirements for courses throughout the 9th and 12th grades. 

While Duke University doesn’t have a solid, single formula of classes that are absolutely required to gain entry to the prestigious school, it does provide recommendations. 

Duke University strongly recommends that you take the following courses during high school:

• Three or four years of a foreign language
• Four years of English
• Three to four years of mathematics
• At least three years of social studies
• Three or four years of natural sciences

In addition, if you plan to apply to the Pratt School of Engineering, Duke strongly advises that you take physics in high school, and calculus is required. You must do exceptionally well in all of your classes and maintain the highest grades possible. 

Duke places great emphasis on the fact that it searches for students who exhibit intellectual curiosity, ambition, and perseverance in the midst of obstacles. The university seeks students who don’t shy away from challenging opportunities. Therefore, it’s vital that if you have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes, you do so. 

When you have the opportunity to rise to a challenge, and you take that opportunity, it will make your application to Duke stronger.

How Does Duke Rate Admission Applicants?

Duke University is searching for students who can bring a broad array of skills, talents, and initiatives to the classroom and its campus. It’s not enough to have talent, skills, and curiosity — you have to use them. 

The school uses a holistic approach to making admission decisions, so they are adamant about exploring applicants’ extracurricular activities and reading their essays with as much fervor as they put toward looking at test scores and GPAs.

There are eight factors that the university has stated are “very important” in regard to its decision-making process for admissions:

• GPA
• Class rank
• Standardized test scores
• Extracurricular activities
• Ability and talent
• Personal qualities/character
• The rigor of high school classes
• Teacher and counselor letters of recommendations

There are several other factors that Duke University considers, even though the school does not rank any factors as being important. These additional factors are legacy status, state residency, racial/ethnic status, interviews, work, volunteer experience, and demonstrated interest.

If you are an athlete, that may help your chances of being admitted as well. Duke has 27 Division I sports teams, and about 5% of incoming freshmen are recruited athletes.

Duke Admission Help: Application Requirements

The following is a list of items Duke requires to submit a complete application. You should use the list to make sure that you have everything you need to apply to Duke when the time comes. 

• Duke accepts the Coalition Application, the QuestBridge Application, and the Common Application
• The Coalition App essay or the Common App essay
• SAT or ACT scores (when required)
• High school reports and transcripts
• Arts supplements, if applicable
• Duke’s supplemental essays
• Two letters of recommendation from teachers
• One letter of recommendation from a counselor

Furthermore, you can choose to send in a personal recommendation from a mentor, employer, or someone else who knows you very well. 

Additionally, if you apply according to the Early Decision deadlines and guidelines, you must submit your first-quarter grades. If you plan to apply while abiding by the Regular Decision timeline and deadlines, you must submit your midyear grade report with your application.

Duke Application Help: Should You Apply through Early Decision or Regular Decision?

At first, it may appear that there isn’t much of a difference between applying during Early or Regular Decision. However, if you apply during Early Decision and are accepted, your decision to attend is legally binding. So if you apply early and are accepted, you are informing Duke that you are committed to enrolling and that you cannot go to school elsewhere.

Therefore, you must be certain that you will attend Duke if you apply during Early Decision. If you are certain you want to attend Duke, your grades and test scores are tops, and you’re ready by early November to apply, then this may be the best option for you.

It’s important to know that the acceptance rate for Early Decision applicants is about 21%, which is more than triple the overall acceptance rate of 6.3%. The average acceptance rate for Regular Decision applicants is just 4.6%.

By applying for the Early Decision round, you can show the admissions committee a level of commitment that exceeds what can be shown by applying for the Regular Decision round or even a non-binding Early Action. So again, if you have your heart set on attending Duke, and you have no doubt that you will attend if invited to do so, consider applying for the Early Decision option.

The Early Decision application deadline is November 1, and the Regular Decision application deadline is January 3. 

Optional Interviews

Not all universities offer alumni interviews as part of the admissions process, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Duke does, so if you have the opportunity to participate in one, it is recommended to do so.

After students submit their applications, they are matched with alumni interviewers in their home areas. The interviews are then given on a first-come, first-served basis. These interviews typically last for about 30 to 60 minutes. Keep in mind that these are interviews conducted with alumni; no student is ever granted on-campus evaluative interviews with an admissions team member.

There are always more applicants than available interviews, which means that, in the end, not every applicant is able to participate. If you are not granted an interview, you can submit an additional letter of recommendation along with your completed application. Doing so is strongly recommended.

Demonstrated Interest at Duke University

Many other universities do not consider demonstrated interest as part of the admissions process, but Duke University does. Demonstrated interest includes things like visiting campus, taking virtual tours, reaching out to alumni and admissions staff, and the like. 

Since Duke does take a look at how much interest you appear to have in attending, it’s crucial that you connect through social media, visit the campus, meet Duke representatives at college fairs, and make contact with the admissions office. Note that part of demonstrated interest could also be applying for Early Decision admission rounds.

How to Get into Duke University: The Essays

As is the case with all universities and their required essay prompts, it’s vital that you devote ample effort and time to crafting excellent responses. There are essays that are included in the application itself (whether you complete the Common Application or the Coalition Application), and there are also Duke-specific essay prompts as well.

Some of the previously provided essay prompts used by Duke University were similar to the following:

• Please explain why you feel Duke University is a good match for you. What in particular about the school attracts you? (200-word limit.)
• We believe diversity is what makes our student community strong. If you want to share with us any experiences you’ve had that would enable us to get to know you better, you can do so here. We appreciate the people who are applying to Duke University. We seek engaged students who represent part of the wide range of human experiences. (250-word limit.)
• Our commitment to inclusion and celebrating diversity includes gender expression, identity, and sexual orientation. If you want to share something with us about your identity, please do so. You can also use a previous essay prompt if you feel it is appropriate. (250-word limit.)

You can never be too prepared when it comes to essay writing. Use these previous essay prompts as practice for your Duke application essays. 

Duke Admission Help: The Bottom Line

If any one of the eight “very important” criteria for you is not as strong as it should be for Duke, such as if your GPA is shy of a 3.9, you will need to bring other compelling aspects to the admissions staff if you want to leave a lasting impression on them. Start planning early and seek out Duke application help to guide you.

The post How to Get into Duke University appeared first on Empowerly.

Gaining admission to Cornell University is a dream for many aspiring students, and with its rich history, stunning campus, and world-class programs, it’s easy to see why. As one of the prestigious Ivy League schools, Cornell attracts some of the brightest minds, making the application process highly competitive. 

To stand out in this rigorous selection, applicants must present a well-rounded profile that highlights academic excellence, personal character, and a genuine passion for learning. This guide will equip you with essential insights and strategies to navigate the path to Cornell successfully.

What Cornell Looks For in Students

• Intellectual Engagement: Demonstrated commitment to challenging coursework and a strong passion for learning. Applicants should showcase how their academic experiences have prepared them for success at Cornell.
  
• Strong Character Traits: Personal qualities such as honesty, open-mindedness, initiative, collaboration, empathy, and curiosity are vital. Applicants should ensure their essays and recommendations highlight these attributes effectively.
  
• Active Involvement: Evidence of engagement in community service, extracurricular activities, work experiences, research, and leadership roles. Cornell seeks to understand how applicants have utilized their time outside the classroom and what unique talents or commitments they bring.
  
• Motivation for Choosing Cornell: Clear articulation of how applicants plan to leverage Cornell’s exceptional educational opportunities. They should express why the university aligns with their personal and academic goals.
  
• Fit with Specific Programs: Insight into why applicants are interested in particular colleges or schools within Cornell. Demonstrating a good match between personal academic interests and the offerings of the chosen program is essential.

With these in mind, here are:

Video: Cornell University Undergraduate Admissions Info Session Part 3: Admission, Financial Aid, Outcomes

8 Tips to Get into Cornell

Cornell's admissions process is competitive, and standing out requires a combination of academic excellence, thoughtful preparation, and strategic focus. Below are some essential tips to increase your chances of being admitted to this prestigious institution:

Video: how I struggled at Cornell University (+ tips college students MUST know!)

 1. Near Perfect GPA

Cornell prioritizes students who have demonstrated consistent academic excellence. You’ll need a GPA that’s well above average, typically around 3.9 or higher. Focus on excelling in core subjects like math, science, and language arts, especially in advanced placement (AP) or honors classes. Taking challenging courses shows Cornell that you're prepared for their rigorous curriculum.

Beyond GPA, admissions officers look for upward trends or consistent high performance. If there are any dips in your grades, be prepared to explain them constructively in your application. 

Colleges appreciate students who have faced challenges and shown resilience, so if your academic journey has had ups and downs, use that as an opportunity to showcase how you’ve grown. 

2. High SAT and ACT Scores

To increase your chances of admission to Cornell, achieving high standardized test scores is crucial. The SAT and ACT are essential components of the admissions process, providing a standardized measure of your academic ability. 

Competitive applicants often score in the top percentile, with SAT scores ranging between 1480-1560 and ACT scores typically between 32-35. These numbers demonstrate that you're not only prepared for Cornell's rigorous academics but also able to thrive in a high-pressure environment.

If your test scores or GPA have been impacted by personal challenges or life experiences, consider explaining these circumstances in your application’s additional information section.

3. Take High School Classes that Align with College Course Requirements

To improve your chances of getting into Cornell, it’s important to take high school classes that align with the academic requirements of the specific college you're applying to. Cornell's colleges have different expectations, so your coursework should reflect the focus of your intended major. 

For example, if you plan to apply to the College of Arts and Sciences, you'll need four units of English, three units each of math, science, and one foreign language. These foundational subjects demonstrate that you're ready for Cornell's liberal arts curriculum and rigorous academic standards.

If you’re aiming for the College of Engineering, your high school coursework should be even more focused on STEM subjects. Cornell expects at least 16 total units, with four in math, including calculus, and one unit each in physics and chemistry. 

Additional recommended classes include computer science and a foreign language, which provide a solid foundation for the problem-solving and analytical skills you'll need in an engineering program.

Regardless of the college you're applying to, Cornell values a rigorous high school curriculum. Taking Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses in subjects relevant to your field of interest will show admissions that you’re capable of handling the challenges of college-level work. 

If certain courses weren't available at your school, be sure to explain the circumstances in your application, so Cornell understands your academic choices within the context of your school's offerings.

4. Craft a Standout Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your opportunity to show the admissions committee who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Aim to tell a unique story that reflects your passions, challenges you’ve overcome, and the goals you aim to achieve. Be authentic and specific about why Cornell’s offerings align with your academic and personal aspirations.

It’s crucial to focus on your voice. Avoid clichés like “I want to change the world,” and instead, provide concrete examples from your life that show how you’ve already taken steps toward your goals. For example, if you’re interested in environmental science, maybe you started a recycling initiative at your school. 

Demonstrating a clear understanding of Cornell’s programs, such as their public engagement focus or research opportunities, and how they fit into your future ambitions will make your essay stand out among the many others.

5. Excel in Extracurricular Activities

While academics are crucial, Cornell also values students who are involved in their communities and exhibit leadership. Make sure your extracurricular activities reflect your interests and demonstrate commitment. Whether you’re leading a club, playing varsity sports, or volunteering, these activities highlight your ability to balance various responsibilities while making a positive impact.

Admissions officers are looking for depth, not breadth. Rather than being involved in many different activities, focus on a few that genuinely matter to you and show leadership or initiative. Cornell appreciates applicants who have made tangible contributions to their communities or schools, whether through organizing events, spearheading new initiatives, or mentoring others. 

Volunteering at a local charity or creating a program to support underprivileged students can show that you’re invested in making a real difference, aligning with Cornell’s mission of public engagement.

6. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are vital in helping Cornell assess your character and academic potential. Choose teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your specific strengths, work ethic, and personal qualities. Ideally, these should come from instructors who’ve taught you in challenging courses and can highlight your growth and achievements.

Make sure to give your recommenders ample time to write thoughtful letters. A rushed letter will often lack the personal touch that makes recommendations stand out. You can help your recommenders by providing them with a “brag sheet” outlining your achievements, projects, and academic goals, giving them a clear picture of your strengths. A detailed, personalized recommendation can offer admissions officers insights into qualities that don’t show up in transcripts—such as resilience, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity.

7. Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

Taking Advanced Placement (AP) courses is not a requirement for admission to Cornell, but they are highly recommended to demonstrate your academic rigor and ability to handle challenging material. AP courses allow you to engage with college-level coursework while still in high school, showing the admissions team that you are prepared for the academic challenges you will face at Cornell. 

Excelling in these courses and performing well on the AP exams will further highlight your readiness for Cornell’s rigorous academic environment. By taking AP courses, you can also potentially earn college credit, which might allow you to bypass some introductory-level courses once you arrive on campus.

Choosing AP courses that align with your intended major or field of interest is a great way to enhance your application. For instance, if you’re applying to a STEM-focused program, taking AP Calculus or AP Physics demonstrates your commitment and proficiency in relevant subjects. Similarly, for students interested in the humanities, courses such as AP English Literature or AP U.S. History are strong choices. 

Scoring well on AP exams, ideally a 4 or 5, further reinforces your academic strengths and shows Cornell that you can thrive in a challenging academic setting.

8. Participation in Enrichment Programs

Participation in enrichment programs, especially those connected to Cornell’s Ithaca campus, is a great way to strengthen your application. These programs offer students the opportunity to engage in immersive learning experiences and explore potential academic interests in greater depth. 

Attending Cornell-specific programs, such as Cornell University Summer College, not only exposes you to the academic environment at Cornell but also demonstrates your genuine interest in the institution. This proactive involvement can set you apart from other applicants by showing that you have taken concrete steps to become more familiar with Cornell’s culture, faculty, and academic offerings.

In addition to showcasing your academic dedication, these programs allow you to build valuable connections with faculty and current students. This firsthand experience will provide you with insights that can enrich your personal statement or supplemental essays. 

Mentioning your participation in these programs in your application can illustrate your enthusiasm for becoming part of the Cornell community, as well as how the experience has shaped your academic goals and desire to attend the university.

9. Prepare for the Cornell Interview (Optional)

If you’re selected for an interview, it’s a great opportunity to further distinguish yourself. Be ready to discuss your academic interests and why Cornell is your top choice. The interview is also a chance to show your personality and how you can contribute to the Cornell community.

Prepare by researching Cornell’s programs and thinking about how they align with your career goals. You can mention specific professors whose work inspires you, research initiatives you’d like to join, or student organizations you want to participate in. Practice answering common interview questions, but don’t sound overly rehearsed—admissions officers appreciate authenticity. 

Be prepared to discuss a recent project, your leadership roles, or how you’ve overcome challenges. The key is to be passionate, articulate, and enthusiastic about your future at Cornell.

How Hard is it to Get into Cornell?

Cornell University is one of the most competitive Ivy League schools, with an overall acceptance rate of 7.3%. This means that fewer than 1 in 10 applicants are accepted, making it extremely difficult to gain admission. To put this in perspective, in the 2023 admissions cycle, Cornell received 71,164 applications and accepted only 5,168 students.

Most admitted students have top-notch academic records. A high GPA (3.8-4.0) is almost a requirement, alongside standardized test scores (if submitted) in the upper percentiles—SAT scores between 1470 and 1550 or ACT scores between 33 and 35. Beyond academics, students also need standout essays, robust extracurricular involvement, and a personal statement that shows a compelling fit with Cornell’s values.

Cornell Application Deadlines and Early Decision Policy

Cornell offers both Early Decision and Regular Decision application processes, with important deadlines and policies:

• Early Decision (ED): November 1 (application deadline)
  
  • ED is binding, meaning if you’re accepted, you must withdraw applications from all other schools. It’s ideal for students who are certain that Cornell is their top choice.
  • Benefits: Early decision applicants tend to have higher acceptance rates compared to regular decisions.
  • Supporting documents must be submitted by November 15, and decisions are released in mid-December.
    
• Regular Decision: January 2 (application deadline)
  
  • This is the standard application process. Students submit their materials by January 2 and can apply to multiple schools.
  • Supporting documents must also be submitted by January 2, with decisions released in early April.

Note: Cornell’s transfer application deadline is March 15, with decisions typically released by late May.

What GPA Do You Need to Get into Cornell University?

According to Cornell’s statistics, more than 83% of students who were accepted to the school graduated in the top decile of their high school classes. Because of Cornell’s esteemed stature, you will need to maintain a near-perfect GPA and average As in all of your classes, even though official GPAs are not released.

The best way to get an idea of what Cornell University looks for in its students is to take a look at the average GPA of those the school has already accepted. The average unweighted GPA for students who get into Cornell is around 4.07 (high schools that offer AP courses use a 5.0 GPA scale instead of a 4.0 scale). 

This means that you must take AP, honors, and IB courses during your high school career whenever they are available to you.

If your school doesn’t offer AP or IB courses, strive to attain a 3.9 to 4.0 GPA. 

There’s another important reason for you to take as many upper-level courses as possible during high school other than for the extra bump in your GPA. Cornell admissions officers are looking for students who don’t shy away from a challenge, and they want to see if you are ready for college-level coursework. 

To show that you are ready, make sure to take advanced courses when they are available. Cornell wants students who don’t “take the easy way” just because they can.

Cornell Application Help: What ACT and SAT Scores Are Required for Admission?

Cornell University has extended its test-optional and score-free policies for first-year applicants for the fall of 2023 and fall of 2024. Typically, however, the school operates on a test-required policy, so usually, scores from SAT and ACT testing must be included in admissions applications.

Freshman applicants can submit their scores from either the ACT or the SAT exams; Cornell has no preference for one over the other. Cornell also reports that it does not use any solid score cutoffs; however, it will still help you to get the highest score you can on whichever test you take.

While each test includes various topics that should be covered during your freshman and sophomore years of high school, there are some differences between them, such as the number of sections and the timing for the tests. 

Students who enjoy math more often prefer the ACT while those who enjoy English and writing more tend to gravitate toward taking the SAT. However, the choice is completely yours.

It’s highly recommended that you take the standardized test of your choice (or both) several times. You can submit to Cornell all of the scores you attain on different test dates, and the university will superscore your tests to combine the highest scores.

With that being said, regardless of whether test scores are currently required, three of Cornell’s undergraduate colleges don’t use test scores for their admission process. These three are:

• The School of Architecture, Art, and Planning
• The School of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• The Cornell SC Johnson College of Business

The other five schools — Cornell Engineering, Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy, the College of Human Ecology, The College of Arts & Sciences, and the School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR) — do use test scores when the university is not using a test-optional policy.

It should be noted that SAT subject tests are not expected or required for admission, and neither are the SAT or ACT essay sections (the SAT essay was discontinued in 2021).

Cornell’s Average Test Scores

For test scores that are submitted, Cornell’s 75th percentile SAT score is 1530 and the 25th percentile SAT score is 1490. The single average score is 1510. The average ACT score for accepted students is 34, with the 25th and 75th percentile scores at 32 and 35, respectively.

While the admission process no longer requires standardized examinations for admission beginning with the class of 2025, the university states that while the decision may be temporary, no plans have been announced to reintroduce standardized testing score requirements.

What High School Classes Should You Take?

There is not a single set of required high school courses that Cornell stipulates should be taken. Instead, the curriculum you take should vary depending on which school at Cornell you plan on entering. For example, Cornell requires the following courses if you want to work toward an engineering degree:

• A total of 16 units at minimum
• Four units for math
• One unit in chemistry
• One unit in physics

It’s recommended that applicants who are interested in engineering take computer science and a foreign language as well. 

If you plan to join the Arts and Sciences college, Cornell recommends (but does not require) that you take high school classes that include:

• Three units of science
• Four units of English
• Three units of math
• Three units of one foreign language

If you fail to take a required course in high school, admissions may ask you to provide a letter describing the reason for the omission. Remember to take a rigorous course load during high school; your classes should become more challenging with each passing year. 

How to Get Accepted into Cornell: Should You Choose AP Courses?

It’s not a requirement to take AP courses during high school; however, students who complete advanced placement exams must provide their scores. Some schools without AP or IB courses offer dual enrollment courses in partnership with a local university. 

These classes allow some students to earn college credit while they attend high school. It’s important that you know that Cornell doesn’t give students credit for these types of courses. 

However, it can still be beneficial for you to take them if they are available because it demonstrates to Cornell that you are prepared for higher-level coursework. Students can also earn credit in subjects through departmental exams. Dual enrollment courses may help you prepare for these.

Video: AP Courses & AP Exams: Cornell Notes Tutorial

Credit for Advanced Placement in the Cornell Curriculum

The university accepts some AP credits, but the credit you receive depends on the scores you receive and which tests you take. According to Cornell, AP credit can be earned from the following:

• Acceptable performance on a Cornell department exam
• The requisite score from the AP exams from the CEEB
• A regular course taught at an accredited college and approved by Cornell
• International examinations

To report your scores, you should have them sent directly to Cornell with the university’s CEEB code (2098). Not all AP exams provide the opportunity for Cornell credit.

How to Get into Cornell: What Extracurricular Activities Should You Do?

Cornell considers your involvement in activities outside of the classroom during high school to be very important. Many students mistakenly believe that the more activities they are active in, the better their chances are of making a good impression on the admissions staff. 

The truth is that the quality of the activities you participate in is far more important than the number of activities. Cornell explains that it wants to see how you have been involved in your community, your job, and in leadership roles. 

Choose a couple of organizations that appeal to your talents and interests and focus on being actively and heavily engaged with those.

Your Essay (Personal Statement) for Cornell

Cornell University requires you to submit essays and questions with your application. Different colleges within Cornell will ask different questions and provide different prompts. If you use the Common Application, you must explain in 650 words or fewer why you want to attend the college you chose. 

When writing your essay, make sure you write with purpose! Cornell does expect students to take the time to learn about the college to which they are applying. Take care to cultivate a thoughtful, purposeful response that shows your knowledge about your college. 

Your response should not repeat information about academic achievements that have already been included in other areas of the application. Instead, it should include information about who you are as a person. 

Write about topics that are valuable to you and include some information on how you decided that your specific college was the best one for you.

Make sure to mention why you are an excellent fit for Cornell and why the admission staff should choose you to join the next incoming class. Bring your application alive through your essay and demonstrate what you can bring to the campus community. 

Final Thoughts: How to Get into Cornell University

To get into Cornell University, you’ll need more than just top grades. The admissions committee is looking for students who not only excel academically but also align with Cornell’s mission to make a positive impact in the world. Focus on maintaining a high GPA, scoring well on standardized tests (if you choose to submit them), and building strong extracurriculars that showcase leadership and commitment.

Your personal statement and essays are vital to standing out. Make sure to connect your experiences and values with Cornell’s offerings, demonstrating why you are a great fit. If you’re applying early, you increase your chances of acceptance, but it’s a binding commitment, so make sure Cornell is where you truly want to be.

In short, holistic excellence—from academics to extracurriculars to personal fit—will be your key to standing out in Cornell’s competitive admissions process.

Work with Our Counselors!

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Additional Resources

• Make sure to check out the Top 25 Colleges and Universities that Accept a 3.4 GPA to see how your GPA matches up with Cornell's expectations.
• If you're wondering how your SAT scores compare, you can find Average SAT Scores by State for 2024 to gauge where you stand.
• Need help with your college application? College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed for essential guidance.

The post How to Get into Cornell University: Admissions Guide  appeared first on Empowerly.

From maintaining a high GPA to crafting compelling essays, each aspect of your application contributes to your success. Let’s dive into the key factors that can boost your chances of becoming part of this prestigious institution.

How to Get into The University of Michigan: The Essentials!

Securing a spot at the University of Michigan is challenging, but by focusing on key elements of your application, you can stand out in a competitive pool of applicants. By excelling in academics, essays, extracurriculars, and more, you’ll demonstrate that you’re prepared to thrive as a Wolverine. 

Below are the essential factors that will help you enhance your application and boost your chances of admission.

Video: How I got into Michigan with a D- (Viewing My College Admissions File)

1. Aim for a GPA of 3.9 or Higher

UMich places a high value on academic performance, with the average GPA for admitted students being 3.9. To remain competitive, you should aim for high grades in challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors classes.

How to Set Yourself Apart:

• Maximize your course rigor: Sign up for AP, IB, or honors classes to demonstrate your commitment to academic challenges. These courses are weighted more heavily, boosting your GPA and proving you can handle rigorous material.
• Leverage support systems: Use resources like tutoring, study groups, or office hours to ensure you stay on top of difficult subjects.
• Develop strong study habits: Organize your time effectively and prioritize challenging subjects. Identify your weaknesses early and seek help to improve, ensuring consistent performance.

2. Write Strong, Personal Essays

Essays are a critical part of UMich's holistic admissions process. They allow you to showcase your personality, experiences, and what you can uniquely bring to the campus community. UMich has specific essay prompts to guide you in expressing your individual story.

How to Craft Standout Essays:

• Reflect on impactful experiences: Focus on significant aspects of your life, such as involvement in clubs, sports, study abroad, mission trips, community service, debate, visual or performing arts, or leadership roles. If you have alumni ties to the institution or entrepreneurial experiences, this is the time to highlight them.
• Be personal and authentic: Use your essays to share stories that reveal who you are beyond grades and test scores. Show how specific experiences have shaped your values, goals, and perspective.

3. Submit 1-2 Letters of Recommendation

UMich requires 1-2 letters of recommendation to provide deeper insight into your academic performance and character.

Make Your Recommenders Shine:

• Ask the right people: Choose teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your growth, leadership, and academic performance.
• Provide context: Share your resume and personal goals with your recommenders so they can craft a more personal, detailed letter.
• Request early: Ask for recommendations at least a month before the deadline to give your teachers plenty of time.

4. Excel in Leadership and Extracurricular Activities

UMich is looking for well-rounded students who demonstrate leadership in extracurriculars. Focus on quality over quantity by excelling in activities that truly matter to you.

How to Stand Out with Extracurriculars:

• Join clubs aligned with your interests: If you’re interested in STEM, join the robotics team or math club. If the arts are your passion, consider participating in theater, choir, or visual arts programs.
• Seek leadership roles: Take on responsibilities such as club president, event coordinator, or team captain to showcase your leadership abilities.
• Engage in community service: Volunteering for local causes, such as tutoring or organizing charity events, will highlight your social responsibility and empathy.

5. Complete a Rigorous High School Curriculum

UMich expects applicants to complete a challenging curriculum with a focus on core academic subjects.

Plan Your High School Courses Strategically:

• Meet and exceed requirements: UMich recommends 4 years of English, at least 3 years of math, science, and social studies, and 2 years of a foreign language. If possible, go beyond the minimum by taking additional years in math and science, especially if you're targeting STEM majors.
  
• Choose courses aligned with your interests: Take classes relevant to your intended major. For example, prospective engineering students should prioritize AP Calculus or Physics, while humanities students might focus on AP English or History.

6. Participate in AP, IB, or Honors Programs

Taking advanced coursework like AP, IB, or honors classes demonstrates that you’re ready for college-level academics.

How to Make the Most of Advanced Courses:

• Select courses related to your major: If you're aiming for a degree in business, take AP Economics or AP Statistics. STEM students should focus on AP Biology, Physics, or Calculus.
• Score high on exams: High AP exam scores (4 or 5) can earn you college credits at UMich, helping you get ahead in your academic journey.

7. Consider Submitting SAT/ACT Scores (Optional)

While the SAT/ACT is optional at UMich, submitting strong scores can strengthen your application, especially if your GPA or extracurriculars are not as competitive.

How to Decide:

• Submit scores if they’re strong: If your SAT is between 1340-1530 or your ACT is between 31-34, submitting them may boost your chances.
• Focus on other strengths if scores are lower: If your scores don’t meet the middle 50% range, it may be better to focus on GPA, essays, and extracurricular activities.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

Applying to the University of Michigan is a significant step toward achieving your academic and career goals. However, even the most qualified applicants can stumble by making common mistakes during the application process. 

Being aware of these pitfalls and knowing how to avoid them can significantly enhance the strength of your application and increase your chances of admission.

Video: Statement of Purpose Mistake that got me REJECTED from the University of Michigan

1. Missing Deadlines

One of the most critical mistakes applicants make is missing application deadlines. The University of Michigan has strict deadlines for Early Action, Regular Decision, and financial aid applications. Failing to submit any part of your application on time can result in immediate disqualification.

Tip: Create a detailed calendar that includes all important deadlines. Set reminders at least a month in advance for each deadline to ensure you have ample time to gather and submit all required materials. Double-check each deadline specific to your intended college within the university, as some programs may have earlier or additional deadlines.

2. Submitting Generic Essays

Your personal statement and supplemental essays are your opportunity to showcase who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Submitting generic essays that could apply to any university fails to highlight your unique fit with the University of Michigan.

Tip: Tailor each essay specifically to Michigan by incorporating details about its programs, values, and community that resonate with your personal and academic interests. Use specific examples and anecdotes that demonstrate how you align with Michigan’s mission and how you will contribute to the campus community.

3. Neglecting to Proofread Application Materials

Errors in your application can create a negative impression, suggesting a lack of attention to detail or carelessness. Spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and formatting issues can detract from the overall quality of your application.

Tip: Proofread all parts of your application multiple times. Consider asking a teacher, mentor, or family member to review your essays and application forms. Utilize grammar and spell-check tools, but don’t rely solely on them—human review is essential for catching nuanced errors and ensuring clarity.

4. Ignoring Specific Instructions for Different Colleges

The University of Michigan comprises 19 different colleges and schools, each with its own set of requirements and expectations. Ignoring these specific instructions can lead to incomplete or inappropriate applications.

Tip: Carefully review the application requirements for each college or program you are applying to within the University of Michigan. Ensure that you submit all required materials, follow formatting guidelines, and address any unique essay prompts or additional requirements specific to your chosen field of study.

5. Failing to Showcase Leadership and Initiative

While academic excellence is crucial, the University of Michigan also values leadership and initiative. Failing to demonstrate these qualities can make your application appear one-dimensional.

Tip: Highlight your leadership roles and initiatives in your extracurricular activities, work experiences, or community service. Use specific examples to illustrate how you have led projects, inspired others, or made a meaningful impact in your various endeavors. This showcases your ability to contribute positively to the Michigan community.

6. Underestimating the Importance of Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation provide valuable insights into your character, work ethic, and academic potential from the perspective of teachers and mentors. Neglecting to secure strong, personalized recommendations can weaken your application.

Tip: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and achievements in detail. Provide them with ample time and necessary information about your goals and accomplishments to craft comprehensive and supportive letters. Follow up respectfully to ensure they meet submission deadlines.

7. Overlooking the Importance of Demonstrated Interest

While the University of Michigan does not prioritize traditional measures of demonstrated interest like campus visits or social media interactions, showing a genuine interest in your field of study is essential.

Tip: Express your passion and commitment to your chosen field through your essays, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. Demonstrate how your interests align with Michigan’s specific programs, faculty, and research opportunities, reinforcing your fit with the university’s academic environment.

8. Providing Incomplete or Inaccurate Information

Incomplete or inaccurate information can lead to misunderstandings and negatively impact your application’s evaluation.

Tip: Double-check all sections of your application for completeness and accuracy. Ensure that all required documents are submitted and that the information provided is truthful and consistent across all parts of your application. Honest and precise information reflects your integrity and attention to detail.

9. Not Highlighting Unique Achievements and Experiences

The University of Michigan seeks students who bring diverse perspectives and unique experiences to campus. Failing to highlight what sets you apart can make your application blend in with others.

Tip: Identify and emphasize your unique achievements, whether they are academic, extracurricular, or personal. Discuss how these experiences have shaped you and how they will contribute to the diversity and richness of the Michigan community. Highlighting your distinct qualities makes your application memorable.

10. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Apply

Procrastination can lead to unnecessary stress and rushed submissions, increasing the likelihood of errors and incomplete applications.

Tip: Start your application process early. Begin by researching the University of Michigan, gathering necessary documents, and outlining your essays well in advance of deadlines. Early preparation allows you to thoughtfully craft each component of your application and seek feedback to enhance its quality.

Detailed Application Timeline and Checklist

Staying organized and adhering to a well-structured timeline is crucial for a successful application to the University of Michigan. By following a detailed schedule and checklist, you can ensure that you meet all requirements and submit a comprehensive, polished application on time.

Application Timeline

Junior Year (11th Grade)

• Fall:
  • Research Programs: Begin exploring the different colleges and programs within the University of Michigan to determine your areas of interest.
  • Plan Coursework: Enroll in challenging courses, including AP, IB, or honors classes, to build a strong academic foundation.
    
• Spring:
  • Standardized Test Preparation: Start preparing for the SAT or ACT. Consider taking a practice test to assess your strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Engage in Extracurriculars: Take on leadership roles or start initiatives in your extracurricular activities to build a robust profile.

Summer Before Senior Year

• Research Financial Aid: Familiarize yourself with the University of Michigan’s financial aid options, including scholarships and grants.
• Prepare for Standardized Tests: If you plan to submit SAT or ACT scores, finalize your preparation and schedule your test dates.
• Begin Drafting Essays: Start brainstorming and outlining your personal statement and supplemental essays.

Senior Year (12th Grade)

• September - October:
  • Finalize Essays: Complete your personal statement and supplemental essays. Seek feedback from teachers or mentors and revise accordingly.
  • Request Recommendations: Ask teachers or mentors for letters of recommendation, providing them with necessary information and deadlines.
    
• November:
  • Early Action Deadline (November 1): Submit your Early Action application, including all required documents and essays.
    
• December:
  • Special Program Deadlines: If applying to programs like the School of Music, Theatre, & Dance, ensure all additional materials are submitted by December 1.
  • Financial Aid: Complete and submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile by December 15.
    
• January - February:
  • Regular Decision Deadline (February 1): Submit your Regular Decision application, ensuring all components are complete.
  • Prepare for Interviews: If selected for an interview, prepare thoroughly by researching the university and practicing your responses.
    
• March:
  • Financial Aid Deadline (March 31): Submit any final financial aid materials required for consideration.
    
• April - May:
  • Admission Decisions: Await and respond to admission decisions. If accepted, submit your enrollment deposit by May 1.

Overview of Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financing your education at the University of Michigan is a pivotal part of the admissions journey. The university is dedicated to making education accessible by offering a diverse range of financial aid options and scholarships to support qualified students. Understanding these opportunities and their application processes can significantly alleviate financial burdens, allowing you to concentrate on your academic and extracurricular endeavors.

Need-Based Financial Aid is available to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent talented students from attending. This aid includes grants and scholarships that do not require repayment, work-study programs for part-time employment, and favorable loans. To qualify, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile, submitting any additional required financial documentation promptly.

Merit-Based Scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, and outstanding achievements. These scholarships range from Academic Excellence Scholarships for high GPAs and test scores to Program-Specific Scholarships tailored to fields like engineering, business, and the arts. Additionally, Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships support students from varied backgrounds, while Leadership and Service Scholarships honor those who have demonstrated significant community impact. Many merit-based scholarships are awarded automatically with your admission application, though some may require separate submissions.

Departmental and College Scholarships offer specialized funding within individual colleges and departments, such as engineering, business, or the arts. These scholarships often have specific criteria related to your intended major and may require additional applications or materials. Researching and preparing these applications early is crucial to maximize your chances of receiving these specialized awards.

Beyond university-provided aid, numerous External Scholarships and Grants are available from organizations, community groups, employers, and professional associations. Utilizing scholarship search engines like Fastweb and Scholarships.com, as well as exploring local and field-specific opportunities, can further support your education financially. Starting your search early, staying organized, and customizing each application to meet specific criteria are essential strategies for success.

The Financial Aid Office at the University of Michigan is a valuable resource, offering guidance on applying for aid, understanding your financial aid package, and exploring additional funding options. Utilize online tools, attend workshops and webinars, and seek personalized assistance from financial aid advisors to navigate the process effectively. For more information, visit the University of Michigan Financial Aid, email financialaid@umich.edu, or call (734) 615-2237.

By leveraging these financial aid and scholarship opportunities, you can make your education at the University of Michigan more affordable and focus on achieving your academic and personal goals.

What Does the University of Michigan Look for in Applicants?

In order to understand what the U of M seeks in its students, it’s a good idea to take a look at the student profile of the members of the university’s most recent incoming class. Important facts to know include:

• The latest acceptance rates
• Average ACT and SAT test scores
• GPA and class rank of incoming freshmen
• Special instructions for specific areas of study
• Important dates and deadlines

There are a lot of factors you should know about, from the qualities that admissions officers consider most important to general tips for getting into Michigan.

The U-M admissions committee uses key criteria during its decision-making process, including:

• Your unweighted overall GPA
• The rigor and quality of your high school classes
• Your class rank, if it’s available
• Your specific interests, talents, and abilities
• Standardized test scores (when score reporting is required)

Other criteria that the university considers to a lesser extent include:

• First-generation status
• Teacher recommendations
• Application essays
• Personal qualities
• Work experience
• Volunteer experience
• Legacy status
• State residency
• Geographical residence
• Racial/ethnic status

By doing some research and getting to know the University of Michigan better, you’ll also gain an understanding of whether it will be a good fit for you and worth the time and effort to apply. 

What Documents Do You Need to Complete Your Application?

The university has provided a checklist for undergraduate applicants to help them ensure they have everything needed to submit a complete application. Prior to the application deadline, you must make sure to submit the following:

• Official high school transcripts
• A completed Common Application
• SAT or ACT scores, if you want them considered
• One letter of recommendation from a teacher
• A non-refundable $75 application fee
• METm Duolingo, IELTS, or TOEFL scores for non-native English speakers
• School report

The school report must be submitted simultaneously with your official transcript. There are some schools that have their own requirements in addition to those of the university. These schools include:

• Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design
• Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning
• School of Music, Theatre, & Dance
• Ross School of Business

The University of Michigan strongly recommends that all application materials and documents be submitted electronically. You can do this through an online document service like National Student Clearinghouse, SCOIR, or Parchment. You can also submit documents electronically via the application vendor.

It’s important that you do not submit any extra documents if they are not specifically requested. Doing so can negatively impact your application.

University of Michigan Application Help: What Is the U of M Acceptance Rate?

The university received 79,743 applications from students vying for a place in the incoming 2021–2022 freshman class (class of 2026). U of M accepted 16,071 of them, giving the university an acceptance rate of just over 20%. Of those accepted applicants, 7,290 ended up enrolling.

While the official acceptance rate for the class of 2026 hasn’t been released yet, more than 84,000 applications were received. Experts estimate that the acceptance rate was around 19%.

As you can see, the competition is fierce. If you’re researching how to get into Michigan, know that you must be at the top of your game.

What GPA and Standardized Test Scores Do You Need to Get into the University of Michigan?

The rigor of your curriculum is an important consideration for admission; the admission committee favors a student taking AP and IB courses when available.

GPA

The University of Michigan does not use a weighted GPA scale; however, it does take into consideration the number of demanding courses you have taken during high school. 

The average GPA of incoming freshmen in the most recent class for the University of Michigan was 3.90 (the committee uses an unweighted GPA). 

You can report either your academic weighted GPA on your Common Application or your cumulative, and the admissions committee will recalculate it during the review. 

SAT and ACT Scores

The University of Michigan reports the following scores for students who submitted their standardized test scores for the 2021 admitted class:

• The middle 50th percentile range for the SAT was 1400–1540, meaning half of the students submitting SAT scores had results within this range
• The middle 50th percentile range for ACT test-takers was 32–35

The mean SAT score was 1435, and the mean ACT score was 33. 

What Classes Should You Take in High School for U-M Admission?

You should aim to take five full-year courses during each of your four years in high school. Specific requirements and recommendations change depending on the student’s specific course of study and/or major. Following are the recommended courses the university has posted: 

• A minimum of two laboratory science courses
• At least two rigorous writing courses
• Four years of English
• Three years of math
• Two years of the same foreign language
• Three years of history and/or social sciences

Again, variations on these recommendations are in place according to what you will be majoring in. For example, if you’ll be applying to the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, you should take four years of a foreign language. 

Engineering students are recommended to have completed two units of social science, four units of math, and four units of science with at least one unit each of physics and chemistry.

Nursing students should complete three units of math, four of English, two of social science, and four units of science, one of which is chemistry.

University of Michigan Admission Help: Does U-M Consider Demonstrated Interest?

The University of Michigan is one college that does consider demonstrated interest; however, it’s not what you think. 

The university does not give preference to the applicants who have taken virtual campus tours or connected the most on social media. Demonstrated interest is also not gauged in terms of how many calls or visits a student has completed. 

Instead, it’s all about the demonstrated interest a student has shown in their field of study. So architecture students should be able to show a demonstrated interest in architecture; nursing students should have proof of interest in nursing, etc.

This demonstrated interest is best expressed through the teacher’s letter of recommendation as well as the student’s responses to the essay prompts.

What Do You Need to Know About the Application Essays?

The University of Michigan has school-specific essay prompts that all applicants must answer. An additional prompt is required for students applying to the School of Education.

The two required prompts for all applicants are:

• Describe a community to which you belong and your place in it
• Discuss the unique qualities that attract you to the specific school or program to which you are applying, and include how that curriculum supports your interests

For students applying to the School of Education, the prompt is:

• Where would you like to teach? What type of students do you want to teach? How did you develop this commitment?

Video: Tips from the Admissions Office: What Does University of Michigan Want in the Essays?

The Common App Personal Essay

The Common Application includes seven essay prompts, and you will need to select one.

This essay must tell the admission committee something about yourself other than your test scores, grades, and course history. Answer the one prompt below that best helps you do that:

1. Talk about something that is so interesting to you that you lose track of time.
2. Discuss something that sparked a period of personal growth for you.
3. Talk about a time when a failure or challenge affected you.
4. Discuss a talent or interest you have that is so meaningful that your application would be incomplete without it.
5. Discuss something someone did for you that made you thankful in a surprising way.
6. Share an essay on any topic of your choice.
7. Discuss a time when a belief of yours was challenged or questioned. 

Your answer, no matter which prompt you choose, cannot be shorter than 250 words or longer than 650.

What Kinds of Extracurricular Activities Should You Join to Get into the University of Michigan?

Since U-M takes a holistic approach to admissions, the activities you participate in and your leadership roles are extremely important. Your activities should speak about what you’ve done beyond your studies. 

The admissions committee wants to see what you’ve done to inspire your peers, how you’ve impacted your community, and what you do with the opportunities for volunteerism you’re given.

The university seeks students who will contribute to the cultural and academic diversity of the campus. The students who do well at U-M are those who are intellectually curious and open to new experiences and ideas. Your activities should let the admissions committee know how well you will do in a dynamic and spirited environment.

How U-M Rates Applicants

Reviewers use five criteria to rate every applicant:

• Essays
• Awards, involvement, honors, service, and leadership
• Teacher and counselor letters of recommendation
• High school academic performance
• Educational environment

The application reader will consider different ratings and choose which one best describes the applicant. These ratings are:

• Outstanding: The applicant’s materials are all exceptionally superior
• Excellent: The materials are strong but not exceptional
• Good: There are some competitive attributes but a weaker academic record
• Fair/Average: Materials are okay, but there are significant concerns about overall application strength
• Below average/poor: There are serious deficiencies in most criteria when compared to other applicants

Once a holistic review of an application is done, a final admission decision is made based on the ratings and comments. You can check your application status within three to five days of submission after you receive an email with your school ID and login credentials. 

Get started early learning how to get into Michigan, and you’ll have the best chance of joining thousands of other top applicants to the school consistently ranked as one of the best universities in the world.

Application Checklist

Use this comprehensive checklist to stay organized and ensure that you’ve completed every aspect of your application to the University of Michigan:

1. Official High School Transcripts
   • Request your school to send official transcripts directly to the University of Michigan.
2. Completed Common Application
   • Fill out all required sections accurately and thoroughly.
3. SAT or ACT Scores (Optional but Recommended)
   • Decide whether to submit standardized test scores based on your strengths and the test-optional policy.
4. One Letter of Recommendation
   • Obtain a strong, personalized letter from a teacher or mentor who knows you well.
5. Application Fee ($75)
   • Pay the non-refundable application fee or request a fee waiver if eligible.
6. English Proficiency Scores (for Non-Native Speakers)
   • Submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores if applicable.
7. School Report
   • Ensure your school submits a detailed report alongside your official transcripts.
8. Supplemental Essays
   • Complete and submit all required supplemental essay prompts specific to your chosen college or program.
9. Personal Statement
   • Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your unique experiences and aspirations.
10. Financial Aid Forms
    • Complete and submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile by their respective deadlines.
11. Additional Materials for Specific Programs
    • Submit any extra requirements for specialized programs (e.g., portfolios for art programs, audition tapes for performing arts).
12. Proofread All Application Materials
    • Review your application for any errors or omissions before submission.
13. Submit Application Electronically
    • Use the recommended online document services (e.g., National Student Clearinghouse, SCOIR, Parchment) for submitting documents electronically.
14. Track Application Status
    • Monitor your application status through the University of Michigan’s admissions portal and ensure all materials are received.
15. Prepare for Interviews (If Applicable)
    • Research the university, practice common interview questions, and prepare to articulate your fit with Michigan.
16. Enroll if Accepted
    • Submit your enrollment deposit by May 1 to secure your spot in the incoming class.

Work With Us!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today.

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Additional Resources

• To further enhance your application, consider exploring our comprehensive College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed guide.
• If your GPA is around 3.5, learn which institutions might be a good fit by reading our article on What Colleges can I get into with a 3.5 GPA?.
• Crafting a compelling personal statement is crucial, and our Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics can help you find the perfect inspiration.

The post How to Get into The University of Michigan (2025 Guide) appeared first on Empowerly.

Gaining admission to Cornell University is a dream for many aspiring students, and with its rich history, stunning campus, and world-class programs, it’s easy to see why. As one of the prestigious Ivy League schools, Cornell attracts some of the brightest minds, making the application process highly competitive. 

To stand out in this rigorous selection, applicants must present a well-rounded profile that highlights academic excellence, personal character, and a genuine passion for learning. This guide will equip you with essential insights and strategies to navigate the path to Cornell successfully.

What Cornell Looks For in Students

• Intellectual Engagement: Demonstrated commitment to challenging coursework and a strong passion for learning. Applicants should showcase how their academic experiences have prepared them for success at Cornell.
  
• Strong Character Traits: Personal qualities such as honesty, open-mindedness, initiative, collaboration, empathy, and curiosity are vital. Applicants should ensure their essays and recommendations highlight these attributes effectively.
  
• Active Involvement: Evidence of engagement in community service, extracurricular activities, work experiences, research, and leadership roles. Cornell seeks to understand how applicants have utilized their time outside the classroom and what unique talents or commitments they bring.
  
• Motivation for Choosing Cornell: Clear articulation of how applicants plan to leverage Cornell’s exceptional educational opportunities. They should express why the university aligns with their personal and academic goals.
  
• Fit with Specific Programs: Insight into why applicants are interested in particular colleges or schools within Cornell. Demonstrating a good match between personal academic interests and the offerings of the chosen program is essential.

With these in mind, here are:

Video: Cornell University Undergraduate Admissions Info Session Part 3: Admission, Financial Aid, Outcomes

8 Tips to Get into Cornell

Cornell's admissions process is competitive, and standing out requires a combination of academic excellence, thoughtful preparation, and strategic focus. Below are some essential tips to increase your chances of being admitted to this prestigious institution:

Video: how I struggled at Cornell University (+ tips college students MUST know!)

 1. Near Perfect GPA

Cornell prioritizes students who have demonstrated consistent academic excellence. You’ll need a GPA that’s well above average, typically around 3.9 or higher. Focus on excelling in core subjects like math, science, and language arts, especially in advanced placement (AP) or honors classes. Taking challenging courses shows Cornell that you're prepared for their rigorous curriculum.

Beyond GPA, admissions officers look for upward trends or consistent high performance. If there are any dips in your grades, be prepared to explain them constructively in your application. 

Colleges appreciate students who have faced challenges and shown resilience, so if your academic journey has had ups and downs, use that as an opportunity to showcase how you’ve grown. 

2. High SAT and ACT Scores

To increase your chances of admission to Cornell, achieving high standardized test scores is crucial. The SAT and ACT are essential components of the admissions process, providing a standardized measure of your academic ability. 

Competitive applicants often score in the top percentile, with SAT scores ranging between 1480-1560 and ACT scores typically between 32-35. These numbers demonstrate that you're not only prepared for Cornell's rigorous academics but also able to thrive in a high-pressure environment.

If your test scores or GPA have been impacted by personal challenges or life experiences, consider explaining these circumstances in your application’s additional information section.

3. Take High School Classes that Align with College Course Requirements

To improve your chances of getting into Cornell, it’s important to take high school classes that align with the academic requirements of the specific college you're applying to. Cornell's colleges have different expectations, so your coursework should reflect the focus of your intended major. 

For example, if you plan to apply to the College of Arts and Sciences, you'll need four units of English, three units each of math, science, and one foreign language. These foundational subjects demonstrate that you're ready for Cornell's liberal arts curriculum and rigorous academic standards.

If you’re aiming for the College of Engineering, your high school coursework should be even more focused on STEM subjects. Cornell expects at least 16 total units, with four in math, including calculus, and one unit each in physics and chemistry. 

Additional recommended classes include computer science and a foreign language, which provide a solid foundation for the problem-solving and analytical skills you'll need in an engineering program.

Regardless of the college you're applying to, Cornell values a rigorous high school curriculum. Taking Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses in subjects relevant to your field of interest will show admissions that you’re capable of handling the challenges of college-level work. 

If certain courses weren't available at your school, be sure to explain the circumstances in your application, so Cornell understands your academic choices within the context of your school's offerings.

4. Craft a Standout Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your opportunity to show the admissions committee who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Aim to tell a unique story that reflects your passions, challenges you’ve overcome, and the goals you aim to achieve. Be authentic and specific about why Cornell’s offerings align with your academic and personal aspirations.

It’s crucial to focus on your voice. Avoid clichés like “I want to change the world,” and instead, provide concrete examples from your life that show how you’ve already taken steps toward your goals. For example, if you’re interested in environmental science, maybe you started a recycling initiative at your school. 

Demonstrating a clear understanding of Cornell’s programs, such as their public engagement focus or research opportunities, and how they fit into your future ambitions will make your essay stand out among the many others.

5. Excel in Extracurricular Activities

While academics are crucial, Cornell also values students who are involved in their communities and exhibit leadership. Make sure your extracurricular activities reflect your interests and demonstrate commitment. Whether you’re leading a club, playing varsity sports, or volunteering, these activities highlight your ability to balance various responsibilities while making a positive impact.

Admissions officers are looking for depth, not breadth. Rather than being involved in many different activities, focus on a few that genuinely matter to you and show leadership or initiative. Cornell appreciates applicants who have made tangible contributions to their communities or schools, whether through organizing events, spearheading new initiatives, or mentoring others. 

Volunteering at a local charity or creating a program to support underprivileged students can show that you’re invested in making a real difference, aligning with Cornell’s mission of public engagement.

6. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are vital in helping Cornell assess your character and academic potential. Choose teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your specific strengths, work ethic, and personal qualities. Ideally, these should come from instructors who’ve taught you in challenging courses and can highlight your growth and achievements.

Make sure to give your recommenders ample time to write thoughtful letters. A rushed letter will often lack the personal touch that makes recommendations stand out. You can help your recommenders by providing them with a “brag sheet” outlining your achievements, projects, and academic goals, giving them a clear picture of your strengths. A detailed, personalized recommendation can offer admissions officers insights into qualities that don’t show up in transcripts—such as resilience, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity.

7. Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

Taking Advanced Placement (AP) courses is not a requirement for admission to Cornell, but they are highly recommended to demonstrate your academic rigor and ability to handle challenging material. AP courses allow you to engage with college-level coursework while still in high school, showing the admissions team that you are prepared for the academic challenges you will face at Cornell. 

Excelling in these courses and performing well on the AP exams will further highlight your readiness for Cornell’s rigorous academic environment. By taking AP courses, you can also potentially earn college credit, which might allow you to bypass some introductory-level courses once you arrive on campus.

Choosing AP courses that align with your intended major or field of interest is a great way to enhance your application. For instance, if you’re applying to a STEM-focused program, taking AP Calculus or AP Physics demonstrates your commitment and proficiency in relevant subjects. Similarly, for students interested in the humanities, courses such as AP English Literature or AP U.S. History are strong choices. 

Scoring well on AP exams, ideally a 4 or 5, further reinforces your academic strengths and shows Cornell that you can thrive in a challenging academic setting.

8. Participation in Enrichment Programs

Participation in enrichment programs, especially those connected to Cornell’s Ithaca campus, is a great way to strengthen your application. These programs offer students the opportunity to engage in immersive learning experiences and explore potential academic interests in greater depth. 

Attending Cornell-specific programs, such as Cornell University Summer College, not only exposes you to the academic environment at Cornell but also demonstrates your genuine interest in the institution. This proactive involvement can set you apart from other applicants by showing that you have taken concrete steps to become more familiar with Cornell’s culture, faculty, and academic offerings.

In addition to showcasing your academic dedication, these programs allow you to build valuable connections with faculty and current students. This firsthand experience will provide you with insights that can enrich your personal statement or supplemental essays. 

Mentioning your participation in these programs in your application can illustrate your enthusiasm for becoming part of the Cornell community, as well as how the experience has shaped your academic goals and desire to attend the university.

9. Prepare for the Cornell Interview (Optional)

If you’re selected for an interview, it’s a great opportunity to further distinguish yourself. Be ready to discuss your academic interests and why Cornell is your top choice. The interview is also a chance to show your personality and how you can contribute to the Cornell community.

Prepare by researching Cornell’s programs and thinking about how they align with your career goals. You can mention specific professors whose work inspires you, research initiatives you’d like to join, or student organizations you want to participate in. Practice answering common interview questions, but don’t sound overly rehearsed—admissions officers appreciate authenticity. 

Be prepared to discuss a recent project, your leadership roles, or how you’ve overcome challenges. The key is to be passionate, articulate, and enthusiastic about your future at Cornell.

How Hard is it to Get into Cornell?

Cornell University is one of the most competitive Ivy League schools, with an overall acceptance rate of 7.3%. This means that fewer than 1 in 10 applicants are accepted, making it extremely difficult to gain admission. To put this in perspective, in the 2023 admissions cycle, Cornell received 71,164 applications and accepted only 5,168 students.

Most admitted students have top-notch academic records. A high GPA (3.8-4.0) is almost a requirement, alongside standardized test scores (if submitted) in the upper percentiles—SAT scores between 1470 and 1550 or ACT scores between 33 and 35. Beyond academics, students also need standout essays, robust extracurricular involvement, and a personal statement that shows a compelling fit with Cornell’s values.

Cornell Application Deadlines and Early Decision Policy

Cornell offers both Early Decision and Regular Decision application processes, with important deadlines and policies:

• Early Decision (ED): November 1 (application deadline)
  
  • ED is binding, meaning if you’re accepted, you must withdraw applications from all other schools. It’s ideal for students who are certain that Cornell is their top choice.
  • Benefits: Early decision applicants tend to have higher acceptance rates compared to regular decisions.
  • Supporting documents must be submitted by November 15, and decisions are released in mid-December.
    
• Regular Decision: January 2 (application deadline)
  
  • This is the standard application process. Students submit their materials by January 2 and can apply to multiple schools.
  • Supporting documents must also be submitted by January 2, with decisions released in early April.

Note: Cornell’s transfer application deadline is March 15, with decisions typically released by late May.

What GPA Do You Need to Get into Cornell University?

According to Cornell’s statistics, more than 83% of students who were accepted to the school graduated in the top decile of their high school classes. Because of Cornell’s esteemed stature, you will need to maintain a near-perfect GPA and average As in all of your classes, even though official GPAs are not released.

The best way to get an idea of what Cornell University looks for in its students is to take a look at the average GPA of those the school has already accepted. The average unweighted GPA for students who get into Cornell is around 4.07 (high schools that offer AP courses use a 5.0 GPA scale instead of a 4.0 scale). 

This means that you must take AP, honors, and IB courses during your high school career whenever they are available to you.

If your school doesn’t offer AP or IB courses, strive to attain a 3.9 to 4.0 GPA. 

There’s another important reason for you to take as many upper-level courses as possible during high school other than for the extra bump in your GPA. Cornell admissions officers are looking for students who don’t shy away from a challenge, and they want to see if you are ready for college-level coursework. 

To show that you are ready, make sure to take advanced courses when they are available. Cornell wants students who don’t “take the easy way” just because they can.

Cornell Application Help: What ACT and SAT Scores Are Required for Admission?

Cornell University has extended its test-optional and score-free policies for first-year applicants for the fall of 2023 and fall of 2024. Typically, however, the school operates on a test-required policy, so usually, scores from SAT and ACT testing must be included in admissions applications.

Freshman applicants can submit their scores from either the ACT or the SAT exams; Cornell has no preference for one over the other. Cornell also reports that it does not use any solid score cutoffs; however, it will still help you to get the highest score you can on whichever test you take.

While each test includes various topics that should be covered during your freshman and sophomore years of high school, there are some differences between them, such as the number of sections and the timing for the tests. 

Students who enjoy math more often prefer the ACT while those who enjoy English and writing more tend to gravitate toward taking the SAT. However, the choice is completely yours.

It’s highly recommended that you take the standardized test of your choice (or both) several times. You can submit to Cornell all of the scores you attain on different test dates, and the university will superscore your tests to combine the highest scores.

With that being said, regardless of whether test scores are currently required, three of Cornell’s undergraduate colleges don’t use test scores for their admission process. These three are:

• The School of Architecture, Art, and Planning
• The School of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• The Cornell SC Johnson College of Business

The other five schools — Cornell Engineering, Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy, the College of Human Ecology, The College of Arts & Sciences, and the School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR) — do use test scores when the university is not using a test-optional policy.

It should be noted that SAT subject tests are not expected or required for admission, and neither are the SAT or ACT essay sections (the SAT essay was discontinued in 2021).

Cornell’s Average Test Scores

For test scores that are submitted, Cornell’s 75th percentile SAT score is 1530 and the 25th percentile SAT score is 1490. The single average score is 1510. The average ACT score for accepted students is 34, with the 25th and 75th percentile scores at 32 and 35, respectively.

While the admission process no longer requires standardized examinations for admission beginning with the class of 2025, the university states that while the decision may be temporary, no plans have been announced to reintroduce standardized testing score requirements.

What High School Classes Should You Take?

There is not a single set of required high school courses that Cornell stipulates should be taken. Instead, the curriculum you take should vary depending on which school at Cornell you plan on entering. For example, Cornell requires the following courses if you want to work toward an engineering degree:

• A total of 16 units at minimum
• Four units for math
• One unit in chemistry
• One unit in physics

It’s recommended that applicants who are interested in engineering take computer science and a foreign language as well. 

If you plan to join the Arts and Sciences college, Cornell recommends (but does not require) that you take high school classes that include:

• Three units of science
• Four units of English
• Three units of math
• Three units of one foreign language

If you fail to take a required course in high school, admissions may ask you to provide a letter describing the reason for the omission. Remember to take a rigorous course load during high school; your classes should become more challenging with each passing year. 

How to Get Accepted into Cornell: Should You Choose AP Courses?

It’s not a requirement to take AP courses during high school; however, students who complete advanced placement exams must provide their scores. Some schools without AP or IB courses offer dual enrollment courses in partnership with a local university. 

These classes allow some students to earn college credit while they attend high school. It’s important that you know that Cornell doesn’t give students credit for these types of courses. 

However, it can still be beneficial for you to take them if they are available because it demonstrates to Cornell that you are prepared for higher-level coursework. Students can also earn credit in subjects through departmental exams. Dual enrollment courses may help you prepare for these.

Video: AP Courses & AP Exams: Cornell Notes Tutorial

Credit for Advanced Placement in the Cornell Curriculum

The university accepts some AP credits, but the credit you receive depends on the scores you receive and which tests you take. According to Cornell, AP credit can be earned from the following:

• Acceptable performance on a Cornell department exam
• The requisite score from the AP exams from the CEEB
• A regular course taught at an accredited college and approved by Cornell
• International examinations

To report your scores, you should have them sent directly to Cornell with the university’s CEEB code (2098). Not all AP exams provide the opportunity for Cornell credit.

How to Get into Cornell: What Extracurricular Activities Should You Do?

Cornell considers your involvement in activities outside of the classroom during high school to be very important. Many students mistakenly believe that the more activities they are active in, the better their chances are of making a good impression on the admissions staff. 

The truth is that the quality of the activities you participate in is far more important than the number of activities. Cornell explains that it wants to see how you have been involved in your community, your job, and in leadership roles. 

Choose a couple of organizations that appeal to your talents and interests and focus on being actively and heavily engaged with those.

Your Essay (Personal Statement) for Cornell

Cornell University requires you to submit essays and questions with your application. Different colleges within Cornell will ask different questions and provide different prompts. If you use the Common Application, you must explain in 650 words or fewer why you want to attend the college you chose. 

When writing your essay, make sure you write with purpose! Cornell does expect students to take the time to learn about the college to which they are applying. Take care to cultivate a thoughtful, purposeful response that shows your knowledge about your college. 

Your response should not repeat information about academic achievements that have already been included in other areas of the application. Instead, it should include information about who you are as a person. 

Write about topics that are valuable to you and include some information on how you decided that your specific college was the best one for you.

Make sure to mention why you are an excellent fit for Cornell and why the admission staff should choose you to join the next incoming class. Bring your application alive through your essay and demonstrate what you can bring to the campus community. 

Final Thoughts: How to Get into Cornell University

To get into Cornell University, you’ll need more than just top grades. The admissions committee is looking for students who not only excel academically but also align with Cornell’s mission to make a positive impact in the world. Focus on maintaining a high GPA, scoring well on standardized tests (if you choose to submit them), and building strong extracurriculars that showcase leadership and commitment.

Your personal statement and essays are vital to standing out. Make sure to connect your experiences and values with Cornell’s offerings, demonstrating why you are a great fit. If you’re applying early, you increase your chances of acceptance, but it’s a binding commitment, so make sure Cornell is where you truly want to be.

In short, holistic excellence—from academics to extracurriculars to personal fit—will be your key to standing out in Cornell’s competitive admissions process.

Work with Our Counselors!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today. 

Additional Resources

• Make sure to check out the Top 25 Colleges and Universities that Accept a 3.4 GPA to see how your GPA matches up with Cornell's expectations.
• If you're wondering how your SAT scores compare, you can find Average SAT Scores by State for 2024 to gauge where you stand.
• Need help with your college application? College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed for essential guidance.

The post How to Get into Cornell University: Admissions Guide  appeared first on Empowerly.

During the purposes of this article, we shall restrict our discussion to high school. Accordingly, in this situation, the term “cumulative GPA” refers to measuring a particular student’s grade point average for the entirety of high school until the relevant period.

How to Calculate Your Cumulative GPA

Video: How do you calculate cumulative GPA for semesters?

Calculating your cumulative GPA might seem daunting at first, but with a little guidance, it can be a straightforward process. Understanding this calculation allows you to track your academic progress and set realistic goals for improvement. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you determine your cumulative GPA:

1. Gather Your Grades

First, you'll need a list of all the courses you’ve taken, along with the corresponding grades you've received. Make sure to include every course that counts towards your GPA.

2. Convert Your Grades to the GPA Scale

Each letter grade is assigned a numeric value on the GPA scale. Typically, this is as follows for an unweighted scale:

If your school uses a weighted scale, honors or advanced placement (AP) classes may have higher values (e.g., A = 5.0).

3. Multiply Each Grade by Its Credit Hours

For each course, multiply the grade points by the number of credit hours the course is worth. For example, if you received an A (4.0) in a class worth 3 credits, that course contributes 12 grade points to your GPA (4.0 x 3 = 12).

4. Calculate Total Grade Points and Total Credit Hours

Add up all the grade points you've calculated for each course. Do the same for the total credit hours.

For example:

5. Divide Total Grade Points by Total Credit Hours

Now, divide the total grade points by the total credit hours to get your cumulative GPA. Using the example above:

6. Review and Adjust for Weighted GPAs (if applicable)

If your school uses a weighted GPA system, ensure that you've applied the appropriate scale adjustments for honors or AP classes.

What Is the Use of Cumulative GPA?

Instead of focusing simply on a student’s academic accomplishments during a single quarter, the cumulative GPA provides a picture of their overall academic success throughout their high school career.

Because of this, the cumulative GPA of your 12th-grade year is significant when applying to colleges and universities. Most of the time, if not always, schools and universities base their admissions decisions on the applicant’s senior year cumulative GPA. 

This is so that colleges may observe how a particular student’s academic performance has evolved throughout their entire high school experience. For some students,  it may have improved, dropped, or in some other way changed. While each class is significant, rarely will a single test or grade have the final say about admissions.

How Differs Cumulative GPA from Overall GPA?

Video: What's The Difference Between A GPA & A Cumulative GPA? What Is A Weighted vs Unweighted GPA?

The terms "cumulative GPA" and "overall GPA" are often used interchangeably, but they can have distinct meanings depending on the context of your school or institution. Understanding these differences can help you accurately interpret your academic standing and make informed decisions about your education.

Cumulative GPA

A cumulative GPA is typically calculated based on the courses taken within a specific time frame, such as a semester, year, or program of study. It reflects your academic performance over a set period, allowing you to see how your grades have evolved throughout your high school or college experience. This GPA is updated at the end of each grading period, providing a snapshot of your progress at a particular point in time.

Overall GPA

On the other hand, the overall GPA encompasses all courses taken during your academic career, offering a more comprehensive view of your performance across multiple semesters or even years. This includes grades from different institutions if you’ve transferred schools or pursued advanced studies. The overall GPA provides a complete picture of your academic achievements and can be particularly important when applying for graduate programs or job opportunities where a long-term performance assessment is needed.

Key Differences and Similarities

While both cumulative and overall GPAs aim to evaluate academic performance, they differ in scope and purpose:

• Scope: Cumulative GPA often covers a shorter, specific period, while overall GPA includes your entire academic history.
• Updates: Cumulative GPA is regularly updated with each term’s grades, whereas overall GPA might only change if you complete a significant portion of your studies.
• Applications: Schools and employers may use cumulative GPA to assess recent performance trends, while overall GPA is often considered for long-term achievements.

When to Use Each GPA

Understanding when to focus on cumulative versus overall GPA can be crucial:

• Cumulative GPA: This is often emphasized in applications for programs or internships that value recent performance. It can highlight improvements or changes in your academic journey.
• Overall GPA: This is typically used in contexts that require a complete view of your academic history, such as graduate school applications or comprehensive academic assessments.

The terms cumulative GPA and overall GPA are comparable. However, there are apparent exceptions to the norm. To be safe, you must speak with your school to determine what each term means in the context of your particular situation.

 Is The Cumulative GPA Weighted or Not?

Video: What is my cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale?

The response to this query could be different from one school to the next, but generally speaking, the cumulative GPA can be either weighted or unweighted.

Most people envision the standard 4.0 scale when they think of GPA measurements. The cumulative unweighted GPAs are calculated using the 4.0 GPA scale. Here’s how that works: A student’s grade point average (GPA) increases to 4.0 when they earn an A in a class. He receives a 3.0 grade for a B in a course. He obtains a 2.0 when he receives a C and a 1.0 when he receives a D. A cumulative GPA is calculated using these scores as their average.

You might wonder, How can cumulative GPA be weighted and unweighted simultaneously? Most colleges frequently show a weighted and an unweighted cumulative GPA separately on the same transcript (Day, 2020). This is similar to how they report quarter, semester, and annual GPAs. However, you should speak with your institution to confirm if that applies to your particular circumstance.

For all high school level courses, a cumulative GPA is determined using the number of credits earned, a 4.0 (unweighted), and a 5.0 (weighted).

What GPA Should I Have for College Admissions?

What constitutes an excellent cumulative GPA for college admissions is typically straightforward but occasionally unsatisfying— it depends on your circumstances and objectives. One “good” GPA or cumulative GPA does not exist; instead, there is a “good” cumulative GPA for a specific college or university.

Generally speaking, to have the best chance of admission, you should have a cumulative GPA that is at or above the median (or average, in some situations) for the colleges or institutions you wish to attend, ideally at or above their 75th percentile (together with SAT/ACT scores). 

However, there are exceptions at elite schools. For the class of 2024 at Yale, nearly 95% of those accepted were among the top 10% of their high school graduating classes. 

The majority had weighted cumulative GPAs of at least 4.0 and unweighted cumulative GPAs close to or at 4.0. Suppose your school uses a 4.0 unweighted scale. In that case, a “good” cumulative GPA is as close to 4.0 unweighted as possible and as high as possible in terms of weighted cumulative GPA to be admitted to Yale, Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, or any other country’s most selective institutions of higher learning. Keep in mind, these universities frequently also require outstanding essays, extracurricular activities, high SAT/ACT scores, and letters of recommendation. 

While it may be easier to get into other highly selective universities around the nation than the schools mentioned above, many of them are tricky to accept without a comparably high cumulative GPA, among other things.

Let’s consider a different hypothetical situation where you wish to get accepted to a renowned, esteemed flagship state research university, like the University of Florida or the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, to name a couple (Brown, 2019).

According to Brown, the most recently admitted class at the University of Florida had a middle 50% cumulative GPA range of 4.4-4.6. In contrast, the most recently recognized course at the University of Michigan had a median cumulative GPA of 3.90 (Owen, 2022).

For another illustration, the middle 50% cumulative GPAs for the most recent first-year class at Florida Atlantic University, a reputable public university in Florida, were 3.23-3.81 for students starting in the summer term and 3.73-4.33 for students beginning in the fall term (Brown,2019). As you can see, each college has different statistics. Therefore, your ability to achieve an “excellent” cumulative GPA depends on your goals.

To find out what would be a “good” cumulative GPA range for you to aspire for and eventually attend the college of your dreams, you should examine college admission websites or consult with an admissions expert.

How Can I Find My Cumulative GPA?

Knowing how to find your cumulative GPA is crucial in understanding your academic progress and can be particularly helpful when applying to colleges or planning your academic future. While most schools provide this information on transcripts, it’s beneficial to know how to calculate it yourself. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Understand the Importance of Your Transcript

Your official school transcript is a comprehensive record of all your academic achievements, including the grades you have received in each course and your cumulative GPA. You can typically obtain this from your school’s registrar or guidance counselor. Reviewing your transcript is a good starting point to ensure that all the information is accurate and up to date.

2. Use Online GPA Calculators

Several online tools and GPA calculators can simplify the process of finding your cumulative GPA. Websites like College Board or Khan Academy offer free GPA calculators where you can input your grades and credit hours to receive an instant calculation. This method is particularly useful for double-checking your manual calculations or getting a quick estimate.

3. Consult Your School’s Resources

Many schools have their own GPA calculation tools available on their student portals. Log into your school’s website or contact the academic office to see if they offer a personalized GPA calculator. This resource can provide an accurate picture, considering your school’s specific grading policies and scales.

4. Verify Your GPA on Academic Reports

Most schools release academic reports at the end of each term that include your cumulative GPA. Reviewing these reports is an excellent way to stay informed about your academic standing. If there’s ever a discrepancy, address it promptly with your school’s administration to ensure that your records accurately reflect your performance.

5. Seek Guidance from Academic Advisors

If you are unsure about your GPA or how it’s calculated, academic advisors are invaluable resources. They can offer personalized advice and insights into how your GPA might impact your future plans. Additionally, they can help you understand the implications of different GPA scales, whether weighted or unweighted, and how these might affect your overall academic standing.

6. Track Your Progress Regularly

Regularly keeping track of your grades and GPA can help you identify patterns in your academic performance. Whether you use a spreadsheet or a dedicated app, maintaining a record of your progress allows you to take proactive steps in your education. By regularly checking your GPA, you can make informed decisions about course selections and areas that may need extra focus.

7. Engage with Peer Study Groups

Collaborating with peers can provide additional support and insight into calculating and understanding your GPA. Study groups or academic clubs often have members who are well-versed in academic strategies and can share tips on maintaining or improving your GPA. Engaging with others can offer new perspectives and motivate you to achieve your academic goals.

Empowerly Can Help You Ensure a Great GPA!

Students are empowered and assisted in becoming the most successful versions of themselves in college admissions and after their colleges. Thousands of students who used Empowerly successfully got into the programs of their dreams. 

So, now that you know what a GPA is, the best GPA you may want to have, and how to calculate one, if you have any remaining questions, don’t be concerned. You can find further help from experienced, accurate consultants from Empowerly

Work With Empowerly Today!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today. 

Additional Resources

When considering college options, The Top 25 Colleges and Universities that Accept a 3.4 GPA can be an excellent starting point, offering a range of institutions that recognize potential beyond just numbers. 

Similarly, exploring What Colleges Can I Get Into with a 3.5 GPA? provides valuable insights into your options, helping you make informed decisions about where to apply. 

Additionally, knowing How to Study Effectively for Exams in a Short Time is crucial for managing academic stress and maximizing your performance, ensuring you present the best version of yourself in applications.

The post What Is a Cumulative GPA? appeared first on Empowerly.

In 1749, Benjamin Franklin wrote an essay titled “Proposals Relating to the Education of Youth” and organized a group of trustees to form a college based on that essay. The group purchased the original UPenn building in 1751 and opened it as the Academy and Charitable School in the Province of Pennsylvania.

Today, UPenn is a highly selective school. Its Philadelphia location gives students access to all the benefits of a vibrant, bustling city.

Some notable alumni of the University of Pennsylvania include Warren Buffett, Elon Musk, Sharon Stone, John Legend, Kwame Nkrumah, Maury Povich, William Henry Harrison, and many others.

UPenn Admission Help: What You Need to Know

The University of Pennsylvania prides itself on its long tradition of producing innovators and thinkers. If you’re determined to follow in the footsteps of UPenn’s greats, you must learn how to get into UPenn. Ideally, you will start preparing years before you graduate from high school. 

You will need to achieve a remarkable GPA and earn top test scores. Your application essays must be persuasive and compelling. In addition, make sure to participate in extracurricular activities that show your abilities, talents, and potential contributions to the student body at UPenn.

The rankings held by the University of Pennsylvania are impressive — the school sits firmly as one of the top 15 schools in the United States year after year. 

U.S. News and World Report ranks UPenn #7 out of 443 national universities. Its latest CWUR National Ranking was #8, and the QS U.S. University Rankings put it at #10. University HQ ranks UPenn at #3 in nursing, #1 in Pennsylvania, #3 in business, and #1 in MBA accounting and economics.

How to Get into UPenn: What Is the Acceptance Rate?

The University of Pennsylvania received 54,588 total applications for the incoming class of 2026 (early and regular decision). However, only about 3,300 students were invited to join the class of 2026, and just 2,417 went on to enroll. This gives UPenn a competitive acceptance rate of just around 5% — one of the lowest in the nation.

This low acceptance rate doesn’t mean you can’t learn how to get accepted into UPenn and be successful in your journey! The harder you work, and the more you know, the more likely you’ll be to receive an acceptance letter. 

Your chances of admissions success are not hugely influenced by which undergraduate school at UPenn you apply to. The acceptance rates for each school average less than 10%. The exception is the School of Nursing, which accepts about one-quarter of its applicants.

What Does UPenn Look for in Its Incoming Students?

UPenn looks for students who are leaders, thinkers, and innovators. The admissions staff is interested in learning what makes you unique and what you have that can make the campus culture better. They want to see students who have a commitment to learning, are engaged in their cultures, value personal development, and make an impact on their communities.

The university assesses each applicant’s individual pursuit of knowledge and purpose by carefully reviewing their detailed application. Applying to UPenn requires many different application components, including:

• GPA and class rank
• The application itself
• High school transcripts and reports
• SAT or ACT scores (currently optional)
• Community involvement/extracurricular activities
• Application essays
• Letters of recommendation
• Optional additions like a resume and art or music samples

The University of Pennsylvania accepts both the Common Application and the Coalition Application. If you begin one, it’s best to finish it; don’t switch mid-way or jump from one to the other. 

UPenn Application Help: Declaring Your School and Major

When you apply to UPenn, you must declare to which of the four undergraduate schools you are also applying. The options are:

• The Wharton School of Business
• The College of Arts and Sciences
• Penn Engineering
• The School of Nursing

Because you are required to choose a school (and a major) upon applying, you will need to have made more decisions about your academic goals than if you were applying to other schools. 

However, you should also know that more than half of the students at UPenn change their major to something different than what they stated when they initially applied. You’re not stuck with your original decision.  

There are at least two UPenn-specific essay prompts that must be completed. Additional essay prompts may be required, depending on the undergraduate school at UPenn to which you apply.

As for the letters of recommendation, you are required to submit three. These must follow one of the following two options:

• One from a counselor and two from teachers
• One from a counselor, one from a teacher, and one from a leader or coach

You are also welcome to submit additional letters of recommendation, along with expanded resumes or research abstracts, as an extension of your application.

UPenn Admission Help: Academic Profile

The average GPA of incoming students to the University of Pennsylvania is 3.9 (unweighted), so you will need to strive for all As in your classes in order to make an impression on UPenn’s admissions staff. 

In addition, although SAT and ACT scores have been optional to submit for the past couple of admission cycles, it may help you to know that the UPenn average SAT score is 1535, with 50% of students scoring between 1510 and 1560. The average ACT score for students is 35, with 50% of students scoring 34, 35, or 36.

When the school is operating with a “test-optional” policy for admissions, you are not required to submit your SAT or ACT scores. However, it’s advisable that you still take these tests and submit your scores if they fall within that median range. 

Students who apply during test-optional terms will not be penalized for not submitting test scores. However, if your scores are very high, it may help your case to submit them. Penn does superscore tests, which means that admissions counselors will consider the highest scores from all test sittings.

What High School Classes Do You Need for UPenn?

The University of Pennsylvania does not put forth specific class requirements for admission. However, the admissions faculty expects students to take a course load that encompasses various rigorous and challenging subjects. 

You are expected to have taken math, science, a foreign language, social studies, and English classes, along with others that exhibit your interests and skill set. However, the university has unique requirements for each of the four undergrad colleges. 

For example, if you want to apply to the school of nursing, you are expected to have a strong science prep, especially in chemistry. If you want to enter the College of Arts and Sciences, you should have a balanced college prep curriculum. The other two schools expect heavy coursework prep in mathematics.

How to Get into UPenn: AP, IB, and AICE Test Scores

If your high school offers Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes, make sure to take them every time you can. Like other esteemed universities across the country, UPenn looks for students who take on academic challenges whenever they are available instead of opting for their easier counterparts.

If you take AP, IB, or AICE tests and score very well, you can choose to submit your scores to UPenn as part of your application. In other words, submitting these test results is optional. UPenn continues to give students credit and placement for taking and passing these exams.

If you choose to submit AP scores and then you enroll at UPenn, you will need to have official score reports sent directly to the Office of the University Registrar. For students submitting IB test scores, you will direct those as official score reports to the Office of Admissions by the International Baccalaureate Organization.

If you end up enrolling at UPenn and want credit for your A-Level exams, you are required to email your original certificates to the Office of Admissions to have your scores evaluated for credit.

UPenn Admission Help: Early or Regular Decision?

You will need to choose whether to apply to the University of Pennsylvania using the early or regular decision model. No matter which you choose, you must adhere to specific application deadlines.

If you apply to UPenn via the early decision model, you must apply by November 1st, and you will receive your decision by the middle of December. Be aware, though, that your decision is binding! Once your decision is made, you will not be able to change your mind. The answer you receive will be one of the following:

• Accepted
• Deferred to the regular decision pool
• Denied

Although the university admits about 50% of its incoming classes via early decision agreements, the early decision acceptance rate is still relatively low — it hovers at around 15%. (However, this is still about three times higher than the average overall acceptance rate.)

If you apply to the University of Pennsylvania via the regular decision model, your decision is not binding, and you have until January 5th to apply.

If you are 100% sure that you will attend UPenn if accepted and your family can pay for tuition regardless of financial aid, applying early is likely the best choice for you. However, if you think you need the fall semester to improve your test scores, profile, activities, or anything else, you may want to wait for the regular decision round.

How to Get Accepted into UPenn: The Essays

You will be evaluated according to the personal statement you provide on your application, but you must also be able to answer the UPenn-specific supplemental essay questions satisfactorily.

Two of these supplements are required for all undergraduate applications. They are both shorter than the Common App essay. One is a 400-word maximum essay about your academic goals, and the other is a 200-word maximum essay that discusses your life outside the classroom.

The essay prompts you will encounter might be similar to the following:

How will UPenn help shape your identity and perspective, and how will your identity and perspective help shape UPenn?

Write a thank-you letter to someone you would like to acknowledge.

Describe your academic and intellectual interests and, considering the undergrad school you have chosen, discuss how you intend to explore those interests at UPenn.

Regardless of which specific prompts or questions come up for you, make sure to focus on interdisciplinary thinking and align with the school’s mission, philosophies, and identity. Display an intellectual connection to the university by including specific details about the campus, courses, teachers, or an experience that you have had.

Your Extracurricular Activities and UPenn Admissions

The extracurricular activities you participate in during high school should display your commitment to positively influencing others around you. Whether you held a leadership role in any of your activities or not, when describing them on your application, it’s vital that you focus on the impact you have had on your community, school, or peers as a result of those activities. 

Keep in mind that UPenn is not looking for the students who were involved in the most activities. Instead, the school wants to see students who were active in a select few clubs or organizations that were important to them and really tried to make an impact through them.

The University of Pennsylvania is searching for students who want to hone their skills, talents, and interests in a research-based interdisciplinary learning environment. The ideal student is inspired to serve society, the community, the city of Philadelphia, and the world. 

The University of Pennsylvania uses a holistic approach to making admissions decisions, so no single trait, feature, or factor weighs more heavily than others in the decision-making process.

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