Hi everyone,
I’m a senior at a private Catholic high school in MA. I just wanted some input as to my chances at some colleges on my list. Also, I was wondering whether I should take subject tests, especially in math.
Ethnicity: White Male
SAT: 2240 (770 CR, 720 M, 750 W)
ACT: Have not taken, will probably do so in December
GPA: 4.29 on 4.5 scale, took every AP course available to me (five in total)
Planned Major: Probably engineering, possibly CompSci
Possible schools: UMass (full ride?), BU, MIT, Northeastern, maybe BC or Pitt, other suggestions would be welcome
ECs/Awards: - National merit semifinalist
- MA Boys State 2015
- Summer volunteer at local hospital junior year
- Quiz team
- Volunteer driver for parish food delivery program
- Indoor and outdoor track in junior year
- JV soccer freshman year
- Society of Women Engineers Certificate of Merit for Math/Science
- National French Contest certificates sophomore and junior year
Thank you in advance!
I am also currently ranked #1 in my class of 63, if that makes any difference.
When it comes to which school is right for you, we can’t tell you that. Your stats can’t tell you that and the internet can’t tell you that. You need to decide which school meshes the best with your ambitions and your personality. However, your SAT, GPA and HS workload indicate that you’ll be a good match for any of those listed schools.
Also, I think you’re the only person on CC who has too many safety schools. MIT is your only reach, try to put in some more mid-level schools and one or two more reaches. Really, if you can make your essays nice, you shouldn’t have any issues.
Also, if you find the time, chance me back: http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1824138-chance-me-plus-i-need-some-info-hypsm-dartmouth-amherst-ivies-uchicago.html#latest
I realize that I would probably be admitted to all of these colleges except for MIT, but it will probably come down to cost. Would I stand a chance of good merit aid packages at any of the above?
Merit aid is always a dice-roll. You should review all the colleges, their SAT averages and their aid policies before deciding. However, if you need aid, then you should apply for need-based aid, which a good number of colleges give.
If you become an NMF finalist you get a guaranteed $30,000/year merit scholarship at Northeastern. Careful though, if Northeastern or BC get the feel that you are using them as a safety you could be denied.
If you’re applying to MIT, you need to take one math and one science SAT II.
BU guarantees $20k for NMF. My D16 just got the letter.
Your stats would get you free tuition at Temple and NMF would get you free tuition at Drexel if you’d like to stay in NE.
If cost is a concern you might want to consider those schools or similar. (Those awards are guaranteed, not competitive… you could also get need based aid in addition)