Hey everyone, BYU Utah is one of my top choices right now. But I'm a bit puzzled about their acceptance rate. Does anyone have any insights on what kind of profile gets accepted there? What are they looking for?
BYU Utah's acceptance rate varies every year, but typically lies around 67%. Understanding the kind of applicant profile that BYU is looking for will indeed help you assess your chances more accurately.
Primarily, it's important to note that BYU is a religious institution, specifically of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). As such, a considerable fraction of accepted students are members of the LDS church. Applicants of this faith often have a higher acceptance rate compared to non-LDS applicants. However, individuals of all faiths are welcomed to apply and can be accepted.
Academically, the average GPA of accepted students at BYU is approximately 3.86. For standardized tests, the average ACT score is around 19-26, while the average SAT score is somewhere in the range of 1100-1240. As you probably know, these are averages, so not every student will fall into these exact ranges. Moreover, keep in mind that standardized test scores are just one piece of the puzzle.
BYU values a combination of strong academic performance and dedication to service or extracurricular involvement. They encourage students to be well-rounded in terms of their commitments and not strictly focused on academics. For instance, LDS service missions are regarded highly.
As with most colleges, the admissions committee appreciates seeing a deep commitment to a few activities, rather than involvement in many with little depth. It's about demonstrating passion, dedication, and leadership. These qualities can be demonstrated through Tier 1 to 3 extracurricular activities and are often preferred over non-selective activities, which fall under the Tier 4 category.
Lastly, the essays in your application are crucial in conveying your personality and values to the admissions officers. BYU particularly values the teachings and principles of the LDS church, so being able to align your own values with theirs in your essays (though honestly and in your own personal context) could be beneficial.
I hope this gives you a clearer picture of what BYU Utah is seeking in applicants! Let me know if there are more questions you have.
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