Hi all, I would really appreciate your help with estimating my chances of getting into a school like Columbia or Tufts, along with answering a few questions…
I’m really concerned because so far my SAT is at a 1230, and my ACT is at a 28. My class rank may be first, but I am lacking in not taking AP Calculus (But I am in honors Precalc), and then I scored lower than a 2 for my AP Chem test. I also was curious if with these factors, would a 88 in AP Physics my senior year for my first marking period grade hinder me completely? I really hope to boost my application, and still have no clue of the right things to say that would definitely give me a better chance. I hoped you all could tell me where I stand, and if I still even have a shot, should I still have hope?..what else should I add (even for the list supplemental questions for Columbia) that would help for sure…thank you in advance!!
To be harshly honest, your academics - especially in terms of the SAT and APs seem subpar - seem subpar for Columbia. If you’re really good at a certain subject, try givinng the subject SAT for it and scoring 800 or so. That’d help you out in proving that you do have certain skills which would be valuable at the college.
Additionally, you haven’t talked much about EC so I can’t comment. I’d recommend you had 2-3 safties to your list though since I can see you having a hard time. Best of luck.
What do .you mean by “a school LIKE Columbia or Tufts”? If you mean Columbia or Tufts exactly, no, those stats are below par for the typical, unhooked applicant. Why did you pick those schools? Perhaps there are other similar schools that are less selective.
To be completely honest, I’d say you have a little to no chance of getting into Columbia or Tufts, even with any ECs or your essays. To be honest, class rank doesn’t really matter anymore because high schools have become super competitive. At certain schools, the valedictorian could have a 1500-1600 SAT and a 5.0 GPA. But at other schools in the same district, the valedictorian could have a 3.9 GPA and a 1400 SAT. Depending on the amount of APs your school offers, you not taking a ton wouldn’t hinder you, but not taking an AP math when it’s offered and failing an exam will almost certainly get you rejected from any ivy. How did you choose these schools because they seem like more than a reach for you?