The EDUFAX Educational FAQ

Question #40:

I am a junior in high school with a GPA=3.9 and am interested in a science-based school (like CALTECH, Stanford, etc.) What can I do to improve my chances of being accepted ? (courtesy Jennifer Nier, Coeur D'Alene, ID)

Answer #40:

Your excellent GPA is a start, but the top schools want to see evidence of independence and imagination. Think of a cause which you can champion at your high school and get support from your classmates. Devote serious time to one or two extra-curricular activities and really make a contribution. Attend a summer program at a pre-college institute. Prepare intensively for your SAT I and SAT II, making sure your math and science scores excel. Continue to take challenging courses, including whatever AP courses your school offers or perhaps even a class at a local college. After that, all you can do is cross your fingers and remain optimistic. The top schools make no excuses for their sometimes quirky acceptance criteria, so do the best you can and hope for a good match. EDUFAX provides services for the Collegebound High School Student.

Students who read this question were also interested in: Q.#3 : How important are my numbers... ? If this information was helpful, please click on the smiley

 take me back to the list of questions