<p>Hi zpm</p>
<p>Having just visited Olin, I think I can answer some of your questions, but I defer to those who are already students/parents who can answer more authoritatively.</p>
<p>I will add however that the stats from latest class to be admitted are hot off the press, and they are quite intimidating: (Congrats to all those who were offered admission; quite an achievement – you should be very proud!)</p>
<p>The incoming class is larger than anticipated, as has been noted elsewhere on this forum, because more than expected accepted. And, because Olin didn’t go to their WL this year, they now have 10 already defered/committed to the class of 2011. Unfortunately, that means that are are now only 70 spots, not 80 for this next admissions go-round. And, of course, all the great press Olin has been getting will likely bring in many more applications.</p>
<p>Here are some of the stats we were given:
of the 89 students total:</p>
<p>64 AP scholars
2 US Presidential Scholars
34 National Merit Finalists
1 Nat’l Achievement Finalist
5 Nat’l Hispanic Scholars
22 valedictorians
4 salutatorians
avg weighted GPA: over 4.3
mid 50 SAT range: 2090-2350
median SAT 2210</p>
<p>While academics is important, Olin is also very much looking for kids who are actively involved in something(s) outside of school. The list for those activities was also quite impressive. Olin is clearly an extraordinary school, and they are looking for extraordinary students!</p>
<p>Not to discourage anyone, really, but i do believe the admissions has gotten much tougher than it was even 3 or 4 yrs ago when they started out. The students that are there now are absolutely smart and unique, but I think because the caliber of applications has gone up, so too it follows/is likely that the selectivity is getting more intense.</p>
<p>Oh yes, I was blown away that, in addition to the academic achievement and time heavily spent on EC’s – 53% of the class also hold part-time jobs! whew! when did they sleep?</p>