I’m a rising senior (white, rural, middle-class) with a 4.16 GPA, a 1500 on the SAT (and I got a 1490 on the PSAT so I’ll probably be a National Merit Semifinalist), and a 4 on the APUSH exam. I go to a boarding school (on an almost full scholarship) where I’m a prefect (like an RA) in my dorm. I’m also the student body president, editor for the school newspaper, a member of the Student Investment Committee, the varsity softball manager, stage manager for most theatrical and dance productions, and have studied abroad over the summer in Guatemala speaking Spanish.
I visited Smith earlier this year and loved it; I’m definitely going to apply. Is there any chance I could get any merit scholarships?
Thanks!
Smith merit aid is extremely difficult to predict. Yes, it is possible that you would receive a scholarship – my Smithie had a slightly higher GPA and a lower SAT, and she has the Presidential Scholarship. Roughly 15% of students receive merit aid, just based on the Common Data Set. Admissions at Smith is truly holistic, though, and there is no separate application or interview for merit scholarships. Bear in mind that Smith also meets 100% of need for financial aid applicants. Make sure to run the Net Price Calculator on the Smith website to get an idea if you might qualify for some aid.
Mine had a 1560 SAT, 13APs and near perfect grades (one A-). Lots of ECs. She got the presidential scholarship (was hoping for a Stride). She got the full tuition scholarship at Mt Holyoke where she is attending. Both great schools and mine would have been happy at either. Cast a wide net if your looking for merit. No one really knows how it ultimately works!
You have a lot of great elements in your background, especially in leadership, so while I agree that it’s very hard to predict, you definitely have a chance. If you’re interested in STEM, this could also help boost your chances, though I’m not sure by how much.