Chance me for Smith College?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Smith College
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I am number 5 out of 56 in my class
I have a 3.95 unweighted GPA (4.67 weighted)
I go to an early college high school, meaning that I’ll earn both an associates degree and high school diploma when I graduate
I take both college classes and high school classes. All of my high school classes are honors

ACT: 32 composite, 29 math, 28 science, 29 STEM, 36 English, 34 reading, 30 ELA, and 7 writing

I am a member of my schools environmental club, Beta Club, National Honors Society, and NSHSS. I will also be a junior Marshall in my schools upcoming graduation.

During the summer of my 10th grade year, I volunteered at an elementary school library, where I assisted with summer camp and organizing books.
During the 10th grade, I began to volunteer as a Blood Donor Ambassador for the Red Cross, where I get to help with blood drives.
This past summer, I volunteered at my local senior center. I did a lot of administrative work in the office, but I also helped with their community service projects.

My financial situation is a bit complicated because my parents are divorced and I live with my mom. Altogether, they make about $110,000 a year. I know that Smith isn’t need blind, but I’m not sure how much this will affect my chances.

Also, would you suggest applying early decision? Smith is my first choice, but I’ve heard that it’s more difficult to receive merit aid if you apply early.

Thank you!!

2

Your statistics are fine but Smith admissions are not really about statistics. Make sure you put a lot of effort into your essays, because they read every one.
As for money, Smith gives merit aid to a small number, maybe 20-25% of students? Merit awards seem to range from $10K to $25K/year. I know that some of the students with high merit aid applied ED, so there’s no solid evidence that it is difficult to get merit if you apply early. There is no public formula for how they award it, though. They wouldn’t tell the NYTimes much about it either (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/01/19/your-money/paying-for-college.html).
Smith does meet full need for FA. At your parent’s income it’s possible to qualify for some need-based grant money, unless you have some big assets. If you read through this forum you will find that some people are very pleased with Smith aid and others are not. Do the NPC on their site, and pay close attention to the EFC that comes out when you do the FAFSA for a hint at what you are likely to pay.
Good luck in your college process!

3

Thank you!!

4

@dslice I was just accepted to Smith this year, but as a transfer. Sounds like you have the grades for Smith, as well as the extracurricular activities. Just make sure to concentrate on your essays. They really do pay attention to the essays. I think that’s what greatly helped me.