Chance me please!

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Pennsylvania
1

<p>Hi, I'm an American citizen who lives and is doing high school in India. Will I be considered as an international student even though I have an American passport? Or will I be considered a local student even though I've done high school in India? (Which is really challenging especially since the grading system is really messed up.) </p>

<p>In the 10th board exams (which are like the O level in the UK) I got a 93.5% overall and was the school topper in Environmental Science with 99%. My high school grades average in the 80% range, but I'm in the top 5-10% of my class of about 90. My ICSE curriculum high school is one of the most prestigious in the state, but it's also really tough and doesn't offer much in the way of extra-curricular activities. </p>

<p>However, the few extra-curriculars I do have are:
- Write regularly for the school magazine and am on the editorial board for it
- Participated in mock United Nations as a reporter for World Press
- Adapted the script for an inter-house drama competition which my house won
- Organized the Creative Writing competition for an inter-school cultural event
- Community service working with differently abled children</p>

<p>Oh and I want to major in English Lit, hence the emphasis on creative writing extra-curriculars. I haven't taken the SAT or SAT II yet but will soon. And that's about it. No sports, no music, etc. Will this hurt my chances in getting into UPenn or any other Ivy for that matter? Or is it better that I focused on extracurriculars that would help me in the English field?</p>

2

<p>focus on activities which display your interest in Literature. Also, you should add a statement explaining your circumstances (e.g. the grading system, rigor, etc.)</p>

3

<p>Having no sports or music won’t destroy your chances but It will demean your application slighlty. Think about it though not everyone at an Ivy played a sport or plays an instrument! Don’t worry about it that’s in the past. I think you would qualify as an international student but can’t say for sure (ask a counselor? or email Penn admission) also Google is your friend. You did focus on your interests though! English! That’s great; as long as you have goodgrades and keep it up I’m sure you have a decent chance. Goodluck!</p>

4

<p>Nah, having no sports or music is perfectly fine. Penn only cares that you have pursued your passions.</p>

5

<p>Thank you so much! I feel more hopeful now :)</p>