Do I Have a Chance?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Clemson University
1

Hey guys! I am currently a junior in high school from northern New Jersey attending one of the top public schools in the state. I am unsure about which schools to put on the top of my list, so I’d like some input. Once sports end for the school year, I am taking a trip to visit most of the colleges that are farther away from where I live (ex. Clemson). I am interested in becoming a computer science major and I was recommended Clemson by a teacher. I am also interested in their digital production arts program.

What are my chances of getting into Clemson/my major?

Unweighted GPA: 3.3

Intended Major: Computer Science

ACT Composite (Not Superscored): 27
Math: 27
Grammar: 28
Reading: 28
Science: 25
(Taking again in September)

School does not rank.

Classes:
Freshman Year - CP English I (B), CP World History (B+), Spanish 2 (A-), Film and Literature (A-), Algebra I (B), Biology (B+), Physical Education/Health (A)
Sophomore Year - CP English II (B), Geometry (B), Financial Literacy (B+), Intro to Web Design (A), CP US History (A-), Physical Education/Driver’s Ed. (A+), Chemistry (B-), Spanish 3 (B+)
Junior Year (So far, year is about to end) - CP English III (B), Algebra II w/Trig (C-), Computer Science(Java) (A), Physical Education/Health (A), Physics (B-), CP US History II (A-), Spanish IV (A)

Next Year (Senior Year) I am taking:
Language, Myth, and Human Culture
Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry
AP Computer Science
Phys. Ed/Health
Honors Forensics
Honors Sports History
Honors Public Affairs
Graphic Communication Technology

EC:
Volunteer at a local camp (9)
Head counselor at a local camp (10) (11)
Varsity Football (11) (12)
JV Football (9)
Varsity Baseball (11) (12)
JV Baseball (10)
DECA Member (11)
Spain Pen Pal Correspondence (11)
Coach at baseball camp for young kids (9) (10)
75+ volunteer hours (community service/church) (9) (10) (11)

My guidance counselor informed me that my GPA and test scores are around the average for the students at my school that are accepted into Clemson, but looking around online it seems like I am below average. I am going to apply as early as possible because there is no early decision I believe. Money is not an issue for me. I am nervous because my math grade is on the lower side this year and I know that math is important for comp sci majors.

Any and all comments/suggestions are appreciated :slight_smile:

2

Clemson begins accepting applications August 1. Housing is determined by application date , not acceptance date. Notification comes in Feb with occasional notification around Dec for higher academic performers . Look at the CDS for Clemson to see where your stats measure compared to most recent class. Your GPA does seem a little low, even for instate applicants. Clemson weighs GPA, rank, test scores and rigor most heavily. Looks at ECs less. It has become increasingly competitive over the past few years . Good luck to you.

3

So would you say I have a shot at least?

Would it be smarter for me to apply late so that I can get my GPA up senior year since I am taking a few honors and an AP course? Or should I apply as early as possible?

4

You never know unless you apply. Many instate students with your GPA have been waitlisted , rejected or offered the Bridge to Clemson program.

5

Your ACT score is low for OOS. I would try very hard during the summer to study and try to bring your score up.As far as applying late, Clemson does not look at your senior grades unless you completely take a nose dive.My daughter is a rising junior at Clemson and I also have a son that will be applying this August. I called the college to discuss a few things and that is what I was told. Take a look at the scholarship page to get s better idea for OOS students. Good luck to you!

6

You seem to be a little low for Clemson, GPA and scores. You have good EC’s but unless you bring that UW to a 3.5-3.6 and that ACT to a 28-29 overall, I wouldn’t rely on Clemson. However you never really know so just try and you could get in! One school that I would really recommend for you is the University of Washington. It seems to be a little more near your scores and GPA. But the main reason is because they have a very good Computer program. (I’m not advertising at all btw hahah). But for sure look into that school because it is ranked well plus their ACT average accepted is a 26. It looks like a good match for you. But like I said if Clemson is your goal just work hard and bring up your score and GPA, Good luck with everything!