Do I have a chance if I have average grades but submit an art portfolio?

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Pennsylvania
1

I really want to get into Penn as a fine arts major but I’m not very sure of my chances. When it comes to my grades I would say they’re decent. I think grades alone would definitely not get me in but I was hoping the portfolio will help me stand out? I’m taking AP studio art and AP art history at the moment. I have won a couple art competitions in the past as well but I’m not sure how high Penn’s standards are when it comes to art. Usually I can get a sense of what a school’s standards are by looking at portfolio examples but Penn doesn’t have any so it’s making me very anxious.

2

Your grades would still need to be in the range. Your portfolio may help if you are in the accepted student range, but it will not make up any deficiencies, IMO

3

well my gpa is 4.2 (weighted) with a ranking of 16. I think they’re a bit lower than the average applicant but hopefully its not too bad right?

4

uw gpa? and ACT/SAT, and what is your ranking percent

5

Not sure what my unweighted is and ACT is not that great atm. Going to retake in October and hopefully get at least a 34. My ranking would be in the top 10%.

6

Just be aware that the average UW GPA of the current freshman class was 3.94
http://www.upenn.edu/ir/Common%20Data%20Set/UPenn%20Common%20Data%20Set%202014-15.pdf

7

I think that you need to apply to find out.

Higher gpa and test scores are always better. However, how does the adcom approach applicants with below average stats, but with specific talents? It may be quite different from typical applicants. How much would you care if young Albert Einstein’s gpa, and CR score are below average?

I think the Adcom would have to work through those applications one item at a time with unput from departmental experts to assess the level of talent involved.

8

OP,

My son’s gpa at the time of applying was 3.95 u/w, but by mid-semester, it was 3.84 (two Bs in fall semester). He was admitted as a Fine Arts major. He submitted an animation supplement (nothing very special) and a cello arts supplement (much stronger than art). His SAT was 2230 with two SAT IIs over 700. We were extremely surprised and thrilled that he was admitted. It’s crazy hard to get in, but submit your best art samples, apply, and see what happens.