<p>Can anyone provide a definitive answer to this? It seems like GPA is fundamental, recs and reasons for transfer/essays are highly important, but ECs are marginal. Is that right? </p>
<p>Also, how much does type matter? Is research or work better than a simple campus club?</p>
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<p>It depends on the school. For many, ECs will be marginal, but for top ones with extremely low acceptance rates, you’re likely gonna need the whole package.</p>
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<p>It depends on how it fits with the rest of your application (eg. research might be better for science types, while campus Dems might be better for someone in polysci); but there’s nothing wrong with having EC interests outside of your academic area either. In other words, do what you’re interested in.</p>
<p>And it also depends on what you’re actually doing. Are you conducting independent research or washing test tubes? Are you attending club meetings or leading a significant community project?</p>