<p>I've read here and in other places that some people apply to B.S.E. and then switch to B.A. because B.S.E. is less selective. </p>
<p>I was just wondering if this is true because I am definitely 100% going to major in an engineering field and my high school record leaves no trace of doubt that I will be an engineering student. (10+ STEM AP/College level courses, Math/Science Olympiad/Honor Society)</p>
<p>I was also wondering if low-ish English grades and SAT scores would diminish my chances even though I am doing Engineering. I only got a 720 Reading and 650 Writing.</p>
<p>I applied to B.S.E. with a C in Calc AB under my belt and I had a 600 Math for Reasoning and 590 Math II and I made the 2017 cut. Granted, I actually worked in the engineering field for several years and have very unique life experience, but I wouldn’t sweat the scores too much (they can’t hurt though). I looked at the extra B.S.E. essay as another 500 rounds (words) of ammo to differentiate myself from cookie cutter 18 year olds. If you have sound writing skills, that extra essay seems like it could be a leg up.</p>
<p>I intend to wholeheartedly pursue EE or CE as opposed to switch to a B.A. concentration next year. Whereas I had a mixed academic past in math/sciences, I excelled in English/History. One thing you’ll learn in the field is that being a technological savant can only get you so far. If you can skillfully convey your ideas and write coherent reports, it will only help you stand out among your peers. I wasn’t the most experienced in my field (Marine Corps Aviation and Communication), but most staff non commissioned officers and my fellow sergeants turned to me to write or proofread reports.</p>
<p>This question comes up a lot on CC - which is easier to get into? The answer is - they are both incredibly difficult to get into. Having said that, whichever one you are most passionate about gives you the best odds between the two.</p>
<p>Considering that admissions gets close to 27,000 applications a year I am guessing that they are pretty adept at recognizing authenticity. </p>
<p>As well, many students change between BSE and AB so they are not admitting students based heavily on their indicated major on their application. They are admitting students who can handle the very heavy academic load at Princeton, who are passionate about their interests and who are interesting and accomplished in those interests. </p>
<p>I really encourage you to shy away from the numbers game and focus on what you can bring to the table that sets you apart from thousands of others who applied. If you are 100% engineering then make sure your math and physics background is strong enough to prepare you. And 100% apply BSE!</p>