The EDUFAX Educational FAQ

Question #172:

I have received top awards at the International Science and Engineering Fair, sponsored by Intel. However, my SAT I scores are not in the superior category, Verbal/Math=640/660. Since I am homeschooled and AP classes are not available, I have taken 17 credits at a local college, where my GPA=3.81. I have also interned at a government laboratory. What are my chances of getting into an engineering program at Johns Hopkins, Lehigh or Princeton?

Answer #172:

I would love to answer your question, but my crystal ball is in the shop. Also, without seeing your SAT II scores, reading your essay and meeting you, I have no way of really understanding what kind of person you are, and what kind of impression you might make on the admissions officers of the three schools you have chosen. Nevertheless, there are a few things definitely working on your behalf: Homeschooled students are looked upon favorably these days, and your Intel award is impressive. If the recommendations from your internship are superior, they will be an important part of your application. Make sure that you include a detailed description of your internship responsibilities and accomplishments and include this description with your applications. The weight of the local college classes you have taken depends on the level of the college at which you took your courses, and each school to which you apply will probably evaluate these differently. Here again, a recommendation from your college professor discussing your maturity and ability to handle college work could do wonders. External criteria are very important to offset the possibility that the evaluation of a homeschooled student is somewhat subjective. Your 3.81 GPA in college courses definitely shows an ability to succeed at college work. The three schools you mentioned, all fine institutions of higher learning, are also known to have wonderful, though highly selective, engineering programs. If pressed, I would guess that the order in which you mentioned them probably represents the order in which you are likely to be accepted. If I were an admissions officer, I would definitely keep your file "alive" for a second read. If I were you, I would take the SAT I again. You still have time to send new scores to the colleges before final decisions are made. I may not have my crystal ball, but I definitely do see some bright and shining things in your future. EDUFAX provides services for the Collegebound High School Student.

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