<p>I have a friend who is set on applying to Berkeley. His GPA unweighted is like a 3.5 and his ACT score is a 25 and he hasn't taken the SATs yet. He thinks he'll get in because his mom went there. He freaks out when we try to talk him into applying instate and his parents encourage him (to think his mom went to Berkeley). He is also considering Harvard(hahahah) and Carnegie Melon(spelling) as a safety. Does anyone know how I can talk some sense into him before it's too late. Also if anyone can send me some minimum requirement acceptance scores (if there is such a thing) that would be great.</p>
<p>Alumni relations have zero bearing on Berkeley admissions. Just looking at your "location" information, I'm guessing you and your friend are from Oklahoma so you'd be considered out-of-state- be aware that admissions statistics suggest OOS is significantly more difficult than in-state. A decent weighted GPA is 4.15-4.25, but remember that expectations are higher for out-of-state. A 25 on his ACT will simply not cut it.</p>
<p>Disclaimer: You've only offered me your friend's statistics, and admissions takes into account many things. I've based my response solely on what you've given me and as it stands, your friend doesn't seem to have a good chance. However, be aware that there are some unique applicants from out-of-state that have remarkable circumstances and outstanding accomplishments that warrant a "closer" look by the admissions office- if you search through the Moore Report, you will find there are a number of (though with lesser frequency than with in-state applicants) students with lower SAT scores (I'm taking into account the SAT conversion of your friend's ACT score).</p>
<p>Best of luck to your friend,
TTG</p>
<p>PS. Carnegie Mellon is NOT a safety (I even doubt they'll take serious consideration with regards to his application).</p>
<p>Concerning his accomplishments he is part of the Academic Team, Mock Trial, and Debate Team, and a member of the Swim Team. He has done absolutely zero community service and comes from a well off family (130K in Oklahoma goes a long way). He has performed in a couple school plays.
Again should I just let him screw up or is there a way to convince this egotistical .....friend to at least have a decent safety school?</p>
<p>sorry, but your friend should not waste money on the UC app fee. Yes, s/he does meet the minimum requirements to apply, but the only folks admitted to Berkelely at that level are likely recruited athletes.</p>
<p>A relatively well-off suburban kid (meaning, unhooked) needs a 4.2 w, and 1400 SAT equiv (ACT=32) + 700 Writing to be competitive. The UC's dropped legacy preferences about ten years ago.</p>