So, I’ve been on this forum a lot, reading and just trying to understand how the Smeal process works. And I’m very torn between applying directly to Smeal or to DUS. My stats so far are:
3.7 UW GPA
4.2 W GPA
top 4%
27 ACT (Hopefully going up soon)
1200 SAT
So should I apply for Smeal and risk not being able to go? Or apply DUS and have a higher chance of going? Thanks!
Penn State is my top school by the way.
Smeal only accepted 11% of applicants that applied directly to smeal last year. Your stats are good - but there is no reason to not apply DUS. You can work on everything towards getting into Smeal while in DUS. Those admitted directly into smeal are actually “Pre major” and still have to fulfill the entry to major requirements before they are in. So if you get in DUS, which I think you would with your stats, you can work on the same ETM requirements and still get in Smeal. The other option is to apply Smeal but with the option to start in summer. I still think the safest thing for anyone without stellar top of the charts stats is to apply DUS and apply by November 30. That’s my opinion.
@jihpsu will not having a smeal advisor put me at a disadvantage in trying to go into IB?
No, you will not be hurt. You can look at the Smeal website showing what you have to do to get into a major. It clearly says you have to be either Smeal pre-major OR DUS. You can do everything for entry into Smeal from DUS. It is not easy to get into Smeal as either a DUS or pre smeal major. A minimum 3.2 is required (higher for finance). You can find your questions answered here:
http://ugstudents.smeal.psu.edu/academics-advising/get-into-a-smeal-major/entrance-to-major-requirments
I think you should get in DUS, but don’t hold me to that. PSU does some weird admission things - but in general, you should be fine.
Definitely apply DUS and then transfer into the Smeal school once you get there. That’s what i’m doing! Good luck!