There’s a rumour going around in my school that the UCs prioritize ones SAT scores and AP/IB Predicted Grades a looooot more than your essay questions and extra curricular activities. I was wondering if I could get all of your opinion on the extent to which this is true?
Furthermore, the reason for me asking this is because I am applying to UCB and while my ECs are probably better than most applicants in my school, there are a few here and there (applying to UCB) that may have better SATs and/or subject sats than me. Given what I said earlier do I still have a realistic chance?
Cheers
UC’s are very GPA focused along with needing competitive test scores. That said, here is what UCB considers important in their application review:
- Berkeley
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Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores
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Important: Extracurricular activities, Volunteer work, Work experience
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Considered: Character/personal qualities, First generation college student, State residency
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Note: Thorough review of academic performance; likely contribution to intellectual and cultural vitality of the campus; diversity in personal background and experience; demonstrated qualities in leadership, motivation, concern for others and community; non-academic achievement in the performing arts, athletics or employment; demonstrated interest in major.
- LOR’s by invitation only as of 2017
Thank you for that; but with what you said in mind, roughly how much of an emphasis to they place on the college essays?
Essays are considered Very Important along with GPA and Test Scores so can be sure that you need to be strong/competitive in all three for the best chances.
They’re holistic. That means, in the end, it all matters.