Hello,
I am a junior in high school and I am planning on applying to Northwestern in the fall. My ACT is 32 (I will take it again to hopefully raise it a few points) and my SAT is 1910 (bad day, I will definitely retake it and be more prepared). I already automatically had both scores sent in to NU, so I don’t know if they take the higher one or look at both. My GPA is 3.97 (unweighted, my school doesn’t do weighted) and I am heavily involved in music. I also hope to start a math club next year and I might be in student government next year. I will apply early decision, so I don’t know if that helps my chances at all. I’m going into engineering. I don’t know if that changes anything. What are my chances for getting accepted into NU? Also, should I take SAT subject tests? Any input will be much appreciated! Thanks in advance!
You didn’t list much info but in general you seem like you have a shot. 3.97 GPA is really good, and your ACT, while preferably could be one point higher to be in the 99th percentile is good enough. Early decision helps a lot actually (33% chance versus like 4%) so if your committed definitely apply ED (that what I did this year). It sounds like you many not be in many ECs which could be a weakness but again I don’t really know. If you have 2-3 core activities (with music being one of them) plus maybe one or two random small things your probably fine. Also number of challenging classes matter a lot too (like AP/honors vs regular classes) so it’s hard to tell from your UW GPA if your schedules been rigorous enough. I think McCormick might require some extra subject tests but you should check because if you did bad on the SAT you should probably just avoid extra testing and try to put the focus on your really good academics.
Your stats are good, but what about other factors, like your essays, ECs, etc. On the surface your stats are good enough for the most part, but what’s going to get you in are these other factors and a little bit of luck.
Try to bring up your score a little bit for a better chance. Also, show your interest at the school. If possible, appy EA. Right now it is just a reach due to low admission rate and mediocre stat among other applicants.
I do a ton of honor bands and I’ve won many music awards. I’m a decent writer and I have some excellent editors that will help with my essays. I think I can write a good essay. Thanks for the input!
Here’s a bit more info:
I’m currently taking AP Biology (expecting a 4 on the exam)
I am taking honors Spanish 3
Next year I will take AP Calc AB (my school doesn’t offer BC)
Next year I will take College Comp and Lit
Next year I’ll take College Speech and Communications
I play in the worship team at my church and I also help with the sound system
I was Freshmen Class President and I hope to be on student council next year
I will probably help with the sound system for the school musical next year
Does anyone have any suggestions to make my ECs look more impressive?