I attend a high school that offers the IB program. I don’t have the best grades but I am engrossed in the full program hoping to graduate with the IB diploma. My grades consist of 90s , 80s and two 75s. I work hard all the time and worked hard to get into the program originally failing a class which shows better improvement. I was hoping to seek guidance on how I could go about this and get into the college I desire.
To add to the other answer, it certainly is possible to get accepted into an Ivy League school with average grades! The rigor of your IB classes, along with strong ECs, essays, recommendations, and a hook if applicable, will all make up for your unweighted GPA.
Scoring at least a 1500 on the SAT or 34 on the ACT will also make up for your grades. Lastly, you can explain any extenuating circumstances that contributed to C's or lower grades in the Additional Information section.
Hope this helps!
Hi @Brainstorm_genius!
Ivy League schools are not just meant for overachievers and intelligent kids. They do accept people with average grades. By taking the rigorous IB program, you have demonstrated your academic capabilities.
Ivy League schools do not want students that have a perfect GPA but pretty much nothing else on their application just because they spent all their time studying. There are other areas of your application where you have the chance to shine such as extracurricular activities (ECs) and essays. Talking about ECs, it's a common myth that you must participate in as many activities as possible to appear well-rounded. Applications aren't about the length of your resume, but the depth of your resume. You need to show a meaningful commitment to one/a few activities that you enjoy the most or are very good at.
For application essays, there are plenty of resources available online. Make sure you refer them to avoid the common mistakes made by applicants.
Hope this helps!
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