Chances of getting into UW with great grades and scores but okay essay?

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Washington
1

<p>I have a 2090 SAT score and a 3.99 GPA. I got 4s and 5s on the three APs I took last year. My schedule this year is also somewhat rigorous, with 3 APs again. I was involved in many things in band for 3 years, holding some leadership positions (section leader). I am in the National Honor Society now. I am also recognized as a Commended Student by the National Merit Scholarship Program. </p>

<p>So basically, I have good stats. But I'm not sure my essays will be up to par. Will I still be able to get in? (I will probably list chemical engineering as my major). Any feedback is appreciated :)</p>

2

<p>You should get in easily. You’re probably a great candidate for direct admission to the ChemE program if you list it as your preferred major.</p>

3

<p>okay. because they say that the essays are crucial, but maybe that’s only for the people who have poor grades or something. thanks for your input. </p>

<p>just out of curiosity, does EEDawg stand for Electrical engineering dawg? or am i just randomly making up stuff right now?</p>

4

<p>That’s exactly right. I’m currently a junior EE major here at UW.</p>

5

<p>No, the essays aren’t crucial at all. As long as they’re well-written and answer the prompt I don’t think the content really is that important, especially if your stats are on target. You’ll be fine, especially if you’re in-state. </p>

<p>Best of luck! </p>

6

<p>I think that all written portions of the application are very important in the admissions process at UW. You have plenty of time to write and polish since the deadline is about two months away. Have your application and essays reviewed by teachers, friends, family, school counselors, neighbors, etc. The UW application is long and tedious, but you wouldn’t want to regret submitting essays that you admit are ‘not up to par’. Make an honest effort, it’ll be well worth it whether you are denied or admitted to the UW.</p>

7

<p>^ I’m pretty sure they’re only important if you’re borderline or have below-average stats. The UW only recently switched to holistic admissions in 2006 and still bases a large portion of its admissions metrics off sheer numbers. Many public state universities do the same. If you have around a 1900 SAT and 3.5 GPA or higher, you’re pretty much in, especially if you took higher-level classes and participated in a couple of activities. </p>

<p>Clearly, you should still put together a coherent submission, but I wouldn’t sweat it. An “okay” essay ≠ an atrociously bad one. </p>