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What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
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UCLA
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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)

Applying to colleges with a low GPA, but high test scores?

Hey everyone, I'm a junior with a 3.4 GPA, but a 1520 SAT score. I'm worried about how my lower GPA might affect my chances at some of the more selective colleges I'm looking at. Are there any recommendations on what I can do to strengthen my application and compensate for the GPA? Thanks in advance!

a year ago

Hello there! First, congratulations on that impressive SAT score. While your GPA might be lower than the average applicant at some selective colleges, there are ways to strengthen your application and showcase other aspects of your academic abilities and personal interests.

I recommend focusing on writing a strong essay that highlights your personal growth, resilience, and passion. This may help the admissions committee understand your story and potential better. If there's a reason for your lower GPA (such as illness, family circumstances, learning disabilities, etc.), you should also address it in the Additional Information section of the Common App.

Additionally, consider obtaining strong letters of recommendation from teachers who can vouch for your work ethic and commitment to academic excellence.

It may also be helpful to pursue activities and extracurriculars that align with your desired major or future goals. Demonstrating dedication and initiative can show colleges that you are capable of handling their academic rigor.

Lastly, keep working on improving your GPA throughout your senior year. Your upward trend will be noticed by admissions officers.

Best of luck in your college application journey!

a year ago

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