<p>Is it possible to get accepted (given solid test scores, good recommendations, unique essay, top 5% of class, IB Diploma) to Columbia, NYU, and Emory with mediocre or even poor EC's and few awards? If so, what can I do to give myself a dying chance? I will be a senior.</p>
<p>Not all the tests have been completed, but I am pretty sure they will turn out excellent because of God's help.</p>
<p>I went to a school with no awards at all. So I do not believe a lack of awards will hurt you in any way unless your high school does in fact give out a ton of awards.</p>
<p>Listing your EC's might be helpful. It is far better to have 3 or 4 meaningful EC's that you have been dedicated to for 3-4 years rather than just a smattering of a bunch. </p>
<p>Best of luck to you with the upcoming application process.</p>
<p>jaug1--just wondering, how would Columbia know whether or not a school gives out awards?</p>
<p>If God is willing to help you do well on the tests, surely He is also willing to take time out of his busy schedule to help you have at least a fighting chance of acceptance into a competitive college.</p>
<p>You should alert adcoms if your school doesn't give out awards. I think it was in Rock Hard Apps where it was suggested you write "My school does not award academic excellence" in the space for awards.</p>
<p>On the application there is a place to list out awards and honors. If a school does not have any, it is sent in the school report as well as stated in the application by the applicant.</p>
<p>"My school does not award academic excellence." That's really funny... my administration (super picky) would probably freak out about the phrasing.</p>
<p>Thanks, jaug1 and filmxoxo, I'll probably ask my counselor make note of it in her rec too.</p>
<p>What happens if my school does give awards but I don't receive any until the end of 12th grade?</p>
<p>i am in the same problem, i have absolutely no awards from my school since they dont give any!!</p>