UMiami admissions - what do they look for?

Hey guys, I'm seriously considering applying to the University of Miami. Just wondering if anyone has any idea what they look for in applicants apart from GPA? Like extracurriculars, community service, all that jazz. Thanks a ton!

The University of Miami, like many institutions, reviews applications holistically. In addition to academic performance, which includes your GPA and ACT/SAT scores, they will also evaluate your personal qualities, potential for leadership, and extracurricular involvement, amongst others.

Extracurriculars are a key factor in this holistic review process. Miami values applicants who display a depth of involvement in a few key activities rather than a breadth of involvement across numerous activities. This means they are more interested in seeing passion, dedication, and significant achievements or leadership roles in a few select areas. For instance, if you're a cellist who's committed a lot of time to practicing, performing, and perhaps tutoring younger students, this shows dedication and the kind of in-depth involvement Miami looks for.

Community service is also a valued aspect of an applicant's portfolio. While it's not a specific requirement, applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to service and contributing to their communities have a unique edge in the admissions process. This doesn't necessarily mean you need to have hundreds of hours logged at your local hospital or food bank. Any service that shows your commitment to making a positive impact can be quite meaningful – think about quality over quantity.

The University of Miami also places an emphasis on leadership. This manifests in various ways, from holding an office in a club or on student government, to spearheading initiatives in your community or school, to founding a new organization or enterprise.

Lastly, your essay and letters of recommendation carry considerable weight in the application process. The essay is an opportunity for you to showcase aspects of your personality, values, and experiences that may not be evident in the rest of your application. Strong letters of recommendation, particularly from teachers in your areas of interest, can also bolster your application by providing external affirmation of your abilities and potential.

In summary, the University of Miami looks for academically strong applicants who have dedicated themselves to a few core areas of involvement, displayed leadership, shown a commitment to service, and have been positively endorsed by their teachers and mentors. Make sure to let these qualities shine through in your application!