How to Get into UConn

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Connecticut
1

I’m a current sophomore but this is the school want to go to. Can I get a basic of how many extracurriculars and volunteering I should do, amount of ap and honors classes I should take?
Thanks

2

I don’t think you can quantify number of EC’s and volunteering because I don’t think they look at number of “activities” as much as how involved you are in a particular activity, such as a leadership role.

For classes, it’s basically the same concept that there is no set number as much as (within the framework of the classes available at your high school) did you challenge yourself?

Here is stat sheet that gives you a sense of this year’s freshman class -note that UConn only considers Critical Reading and Math scores, so the average SAT score is out of a possible 1600…
http://uconn.edu/content/uploads/2015/02/UConn_Facts_2015_Final.pdf

3

I think you’re asking the wrong question about extracurricular activities and volunteering. Ultimately grades, course selection, and SAT/ACT scores are the primary factors in your admissions evaluation. Take the most challenging course load you can manage, and do the best that you can. Try to get at least 600 on each the math and CR section of the SAT, or above 30 on the ACT. Since you’re a sophomore you’ll probably be taking the new SAT, so these guidelines may be different. You’re out of state, right? In that case you’ll want to be in the top third of all applicants.

As for extracurriculars and volunteering, really any form of involvement or work looks good on your application. Leadership experience is also helpful. There’s no formula that we can give you to figure out how your involvement will factor into your application.

4
  1. Take tough classes -- challenge yourself with some honors and AP courses
  2. Earn good grades -- A's and B's (mostly A's)
  3. Don't worry too much about extracurricular activities -- get involved in clubs, teams and music groups you like or would like to try. Have fun, develop leadership skills, etc.

In terms of test scores and GPA –

If you live in Connecticut, try for the following:

  • Maintain at least a 3.6 GPA, unweighted
  • Score at least a 27 on the ACT or 1800 on the SAT

If you live outside of Connecticut:

  • Maintain at least a 3.7 GPA, unweighted
  • Score at least a 29 on the ACT or 1930 on the SAT
5

I’m in state. Thanks everyone

6

Just to add more info to the discussion: My son is a current junior at UCONN. He is majoring in Mechanical Engineering. We are from Mass. In high school he had a 3.3 gpa and a 1980 SAT (1380 CR+M). Most of his ECs revolved around Boy Scouts (he is an Eagle Scout) and he had a part time job.

Maybe UCONN just wanted his OOS tuition! Good luck!!!

7

Focus on 2-3 things that you are most interested in for EC and devote a lot of time to them. Being unique and/or exceptional in something is a great way to separate yourself from the rest of applicants and can make up for deficiencies in academics. Post the things that interest you the most and we will try to give you some guidance about what to focus on. If it’s something that exists at your school, then try to get a leadership position in the organization. If there’s something that doesn’t exist at your school, but it could be a cool club, then start it yourself. If you are interested in things that can’t be a club, then blog about it. Even if no one reads it, then it will provide writing samples that the admissions staff or future employers can look at.