Hi there! I am a junior in HS and have been looking into UMBC lately. I was wondering if anyone could provide some info regarding their admission requirements, like GPA, standardized test scores, and any other factors they consider. Thanks a lot!
Sure, I can give you an overview of UMBC's admission requirements and factors they consider for incoming freshmen. Keep in mind that requirements can change, so always double-check the latest information on the university's website.
1. GPA: UMBC doesn't have a minimum GPA requirement, but the average admitted student GPA is 3.96 on an unweighted 4.0 scale.
2. Standardized Test Scores: UMBC is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle, which means you are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, if you have strong test scores that you believe will help your application, you can choose to submit them. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students was around 1220-1410, and the middle 50% ACT range was 23-30.
3. High School Coursework: You're expected to complete a high school curriculum that includes four years of English, four years of math, three years of science (including at least one lab science), three years of social studies, and two years of a foreign language. UMBC recommends that you take the most challenging classes available at your high school, such as honors or Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
4. Recommendation Letters: UMBC allows you to submit up to two (optional) letters of rec. You can submit additional recommendations from other teachers or mentors if you feel they will provide unique insights about your strengths and potential.
5. Extracurricular Activities: While there isn't a specific requirement, UMBC considers your involvement in activities outside of the classroom, such as clubs, sports, community service, or leadership roles. Strong extracurriculars can help demonstrate your passion, initiative, and ability to contribute to the UMBC community.
6. Personal Essay: You'll need to submit a personal essay as part of your application. This essay allows you to showcase your personality, experiences, and aspirations, which can help you stand out among other applicants.
Remember that UMBC, like most universities, practices a holistic admissions process, so they'll look at the whole picture: your academic performance, extracurriculars, recommendations, and essay, among others. It's important to have a well-rounded application that showcases your abilities and potential contributions to the university.
Good luck with your application!
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