Hey all, junior here who's thinking of applying in-state in Pennsylvania. Which colleges are considered the hardest to get into around here?
The colleges in Pennsylvania with the most selective admissions are primarily the University of Pennsylvania and Swarthmore College.
- University of Pennsylvania: Known as an Ivy League university, Penn is quite selective with single-digit acceptance rates, depending on the year. It's known for its top-ranked programs like business (Wharton School) and nursing.
- Swarthmore College: As a top liberal arts college, Swarthmore also has a very selective admissions process. Known for their rigorous academics and Honors Program, a small student body and a close-knit academic community are among the aspects that draw students to Swarthmore.
Other notable institutions with competitive admissions processes include Carnegie Mellon University and Haverford College.
- Carnegie Mellon University: Renowned for programs in areas such as computer science, drama, and art, Carnegie Mellon's selectivity varies greatly between different programs, but some can be even more selective than those at U Penn or Swarthmore.
- Haverford College: This small liberal arts college is recognized for its strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Please remember that a school's selectivity doesn't necessarily indicate its fit for you. Instead, consider factors like the school's academic programs, campus culture, location, and financial affordability.
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