<p>Stanford and Duke are the top two schools on my list and I was wondering what my chances of getting in would be--these are my credentials:</p>
<p>GPA: 4.0 unweighted, 5.4 weighted</p>
<p>SAT: Math-770; Eng-740; Writing-680
SAT II: Math 2-800; Eng Lit-690</p>
<p>AP Load: 1 Sophomore year; 4 Junior year; 6 Senior year</p>
<p>Extracurriculars: President of Anchor Service Club; on board for Math Honors (Mu Alpha Theta), English National Honors, Social Studies Honors, and National Art Honors societies/clubs; Art classes for 4 years; Member of the Pre-Calculus and Calculus math teams (and attended many competitions, including states); Volunteer at the Child Abuse Council and at a summer science camp; Tutor in math and sciences; jobs during the summers; Yearbook staff Junior year</p>
<p>First of all, do you have any hooks? (Are you a legacy, ethnic minority, first generation college student, etc.?) If you have a hook, it will significantly increase your chances.</p>
<p>Obviously, your UW GPA is acceptable for both schools, but by no means outstanding. Stanford reports that the majority (a little over 50%) of its student body had a 4.0 unweighted GPA in high school, and Duke probably has similar figures in that sense. But a 4.0 UW is outstanding at other schools, even some top 40 colleges.</p>
<p>Your SAT I Writing score is below par for Stanford, and I believe for Duke as well. Can you retake? If you can, I would try shooting for a 700 or higher, preferably a 720 or higher. Your SAT essay should be 400+ words, contain impressive vocabulary, and provide at least one strong example to support your position if you want a 10 or higher on it. For the multiple choice, buy a Barron’s book and study grammar rules. It’ll help, if not alot, at least a little.</p>
<p>Make sure you apply to some safeties. I wouldn’t bank on acceptances from either of these colleges, although its definitely possible, especially for Duke. Write great essays that showcase your passions, get outstanding teacher recommendations, and work hard to make your application the best it can possibly be. Then you’ll have a good shot at both schools.</p>
<p>Best of luck!</p>