hi I am going into sophomore year I really really want to go to TAMS. When I heard about TAMS I was truly captivated by the projects. Also I have never taken the classic SAT because I have preparing for the new one next year (its KD that’s why). Additionally, I didn’t really do well in 9th grade because I was one of the pioneers to this new program at my school and for the first time my school allowed 9th and 10th graders; so all the teachers were 11th and 12th grade teachers teaching freshman and sophomores for the first time ( btw if I don’t go to TAMS I have to do the IB program since it is offered at my school). All the classes I take are honor classes and one AP class. Extracurriculars- I was secretary of my highschool LASER club, member of UNICEF, IBSSA, and MSA. I am also active in religious meetings- I started this orphan project and raise money for her. I also do ALOT of volunteer work- I volunteer at my mom’s daycare, the library, and I practically work at my doctor’s office from 9-5 in the afternoon.
Is this enough to get into TAMS or do I need more?
I would really like some help because this is the school that i really want to go. This is the first time I have ever been interested in a program like this.
Thank you
(oh i did Algebra 2 online through eschool would my credits transfer)
If you are interested in going to TAMS, apply! I think your credentials are fine. There is a wide variety of people here at TAMS. Some people get 2300s and some people get 1600s and still get in. I think the average SAT score for the class of 2017 is in the 1900s. Your extracurricular sound excellent. There are a lot of volunteering opportunities at TAMS. Just make sure you express your interest in math and science since it is the Texas Academy of Math and Science. I know a couple people who aren’t interested in math or science and don’t like it here. If you are unsure of whether or not you’ll get in, apply early decision 
I am a Texas resident in Hunior High in Plano…I wanted to know will it be easy or hard to get into TAMS based on my info:
GPA:3.7
National Honors Society
Mostly all honors/advanced classes
decent teacher impression
decent SAT score.
Please tell me if this info above can help me get into TAMS or not
thanks
@monkeycatc
They prefer Plano high schools, so you’ll have an advantage there. If you’re Asian, particualrly Korean, you’ll have a ~very~ strong advantage. Males are preferred over females, based on available dorm space (fewer rooms for females) and number of applications - which is to say, more femals apply, but a smaller percentage is accepted.
Everything looks pretty good, but work hard on that SAT. They pride themselves on a very high SAT score, especially Math. I believe the ^average^ Math score is something around 720-730. Despite what they say, they do look at all sections of the test; all need to be in the high 600’s. You can call and get last year’s entrance scores.
Consider taking the CLEP for College Algebra to prove your Math abilities. I suggest CLEP over AP because you can self study, and schedule it at your convenience (i.e. in time for your application) for under $100, including testing fees. Colin County Community College should proctor it for almost free. If not, try a tutoring company or your local library.
Another way you can distinguish yourself would be in Math competitions. You have an excellent resource for free competition training at UT-Dallas, the Metroplex Math Circle: https://metroplexmathcircle.■■■■■■■■■■■■■/
The overall goal is to prove you are ready to Ace all of your university coursework by having completed some. I know this is a tall order for a Sophomore, but there ya go. TAMS will deliberately put obstacles in your way, to ensure none but the strongest apply to colleges with their name, so you’ll need to get serious now.
Tip: it helps to call the Admissions people yourself (parents are a ‘no no’) when you need information. It’s a very small staff, so your name will become known positively if you’re polite and determined. VIsiting them in person is ideal, so they have a name with a face. You can ask them to shadow a TAMSter who is from your high school, or ask them to give your contact information to one of them, so you can ask them questions.
Another tip: they mean it when they say they give priority to the Early Decision applicants. If you’re not accepted for the first decision date, or if you’re Wait Listed, definitely take that CLEP - or do something else that sweetens your application - and try again. Keep sending ‘sweeteners’. Determination is admired, and is often rewarded.
Best of luck to you!