<p>Well, I know of 5 students from D’s school who had SATs above 2200, but who had low GPAs, who did not get admitted to USC, UCLA or UCB and in three cases not UCSD either, and one not even to UCI. All five were NMFs and had taken 5 to 9 APs and done the UC a-g requirements. One of them had a 36 ACT and an above 2300 SAT.
A good GPA is really crucial in getting into these schools.
I do know of another who was denied by USC, (mid 2100s and 3.6) but appealed, and will attend in spring.</p>