Chance Me: What colleges do I have a good shot at? [MS resident, 3.73 GPA, top 33% rank, CS + business/finance/economics, <$20k]

My opinion and $5 will buy you a latte, but I think you’re an impressive applicant. The biggest weakness for tippy-top schools is class rank - many of these schools take virtually no applicants outside of the top 10%, and the few they do take tend to be recruited athletes. If your school is so high-powered that top-third is comparable to top 10% at a “normal” high school, and if colleges know this or can be persuaded of it by your counselor recommendation, then you may crack that most-rejective tier. If not, there’s still another layer of schools that are still “elite” and wealthy enough to meet need, but are a little more attainable. That’s the category of schools that I feel is a bit under-represented in your list. NU might happen, though, and you’re making some good refinements to your strategy.

Since you like Los Angeles, have you considered Claremont McKenna? The demographic data on College Factual indicates zero students from MS, which could enhance your attractiveness, and they’re need-blind and very holistic, and would love your EC profile. They have their own CS course sequence, plus students can major in CS through Harvey Mudd, which is a top program; and they’re excellent for econ/business/finance. The Claremont Consortium has a wealth of opportunities.

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