What does it take to get into Westminster College?

Hey fellow concerns, I'm a junior and Westminster is kind of high on my list of colleges right now. All I could track was a vague acceptance rate. Could anyone give me some pointers on what they're looking for? Like, are there any specific extracurriculars, or GPA or stuff that makes 'em go 'yeah, this kid's getting in'? Thanks, pals.

Hello! Westminster College is a fairly selective school with a holistic admissions process. This means that they consider multiple aspects of your application, not just your academic record.

Academically, the middle 50% range of accepted students' high school GPAs is 3.31 to 3.86 (on a 4.0 scale). If your grades fall within this range or higher, you'd be a competitive applicant academically. Do remember to take challenging courses in high school, such as honors, AP or IB classes, as colleges like Westminster value students who excel in rigorous courses.

While standardized testing is optional at Westminster, you can still submit your SAT or ACT scores if you feel they strengthen your application. For accepted students, the middle 50% SAT range is between 1160 and 1370 for the current admissions cycle. For ACT, the middle 50% range is between 18 and 25. However, as tests are optional, if your scores are not in this range, you can choose not to submit them. The admissions team will focus on other parts of your application.

Extracurricular activities are also important. Westminster, like many colleges, appreciates applicants who engage deeply and show leadership in a few activities rather than those who participate in many but with little involvement. Your goal should be to demonstrate passion, initiative, and growth in your preferred activities.

Moreover, a strong personal essay that showcases your character, values, abilities, or experiences can set you apart from other applicants. It’s a chance for you to connect with the admissions team on a personal level and to express why you would be a great fit specifically for Westminster College.

Finally, consider submitting letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who can speak to your dedication, work ethic, and potential growth, as these can provide additional insight into your fit at the college.

Remember, every applicant's profile is distinctive, and this is more of a general guideline than a definitive checklist. The most important thing is to present an authentic application that reflects your academic abilities as well as your interests and values. Good luck with your college journey!