What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

How much do summer programs impact college admissions?

Hi everyone, I'm a junior looking into summer programs as a way to strengthen my college applications. How much do these programs actually impact the admissions process? Should I prioritize attending a prestigious or competitive program, or focus on something related to my intended major? Any advice is greatly appreciated!

10 months ago

Hi there! Summer programs can definitely be a valuable addition to your college application, but their impact also depends on the specific program and your overall profile. Admissions officers look for genuine passion and a commitment to personal growth, so attending a program that aligns with your interests or intended major is typically more beneficial than simply choosing something prestigious but unrelated. Additionally, a program where you have the opportunity to make a real contribution or develop a deeper understanding of a subject area can show initiative and dedication, which colleges value. So, instead of focusing solely on prestige or competitiveness, prioritize finding a program that appeals to your interests and will help you gain meaningful experiences. Best of luck, and feel free to ask any other questions you might have!

10 months ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.