How competitive -- can he get in?

<p>My son’s a political hound and went to an informational session on Brandeis. He was very excited about the school, particularly focus on social justice/politics. His verbal SAT is high, but Math is just OK, and his grades in Math and Chemistry are very weak, dragging his GPA down to around 3.2, despite AP HIstory and Honors English (No AP this year). His EC include 3 years in the YMCA Youth & Govt program. Would we be wasting our time and money, and setting him up for disappointment by applying?</p>

<p>Had the same problem grade-and-score wise although my GPA was higher. I had a lot of strikes against me (pm me if you would like to find out the specifics) but I still managed to get in regular decision. Why? Because Brandeis is looking for interesting people, not machines. They LOVE people who dedicate themselves to helping others, so community service is HUGE. So is the essay and make sure he has a great interview!
In short I don't think your son would be wasting his time and money. I don't think he would get in early decision, and a regular decision acceptance is uncertain (although they accepted ME so anything is possible lol) he could very likely be a midyear.</p>