Is there anyone with a low GPA and low ACT score who got into CMC through early decision? UNHOOKED applicants.
Anyone?
About as likely as winning the lottery. If you have a low GPA and low test scores, you have no chance without a substantial hook. Even with a hook it’s unlikely. Truthfully, it’s a waste to the application fee. GPA and standardized test scores are the two MOST IMPORTANT factors in the admissions process.
What is your definition of low GPA and low SAT/ACT?
@golfcashoahu 3.4-3.6 uw gpa. 4.0-4.2 w gpa. Low act=27-29
@84stag I’m just creating a thread to give some optimism in this process. I have heard stories of kids who have gotten in with amazing interest, rec letters, essays, interviews, etc. My tour guide at CMC told me that CMC doesn’t weigh test scores that heavily.
@JHUSoccer I’m not trying to be “Debbie Downer” here, but the reality is all the letters, essays, sleepovers, etc pail in comparison to what CMC says is important. Just look at their common data set. It lists their criteria, and GPA, rigor of study, and standardized tests scores are each “very important.” Level of interest is specifically listed as “not important.”
Admissions does not break down GPA numbers by admissions stats, but they do for ACT and SAT scores. Last year, those 20% of its admitted students had an ACT score below 30. They don’t factor out the hooked applicants, but you can be certain that a good portion of those so admitted were athletes or big-time connected to the school.
In other words, an applicant that it this far below the mean needs to be simply amazing in some other way that pops out to the admissions committee. I know what I’m saying and I know it from personal experience.
@84stag I think you are very right in what you are saying. I have some very unique extracurricular experiences that maybe will pop out. I’m not sure, but I just needed a little stress relief from the wait. I know the ACT thing holds true but I’m 1 pt below that score of 30. There was an unhooked applicant who got in RD with an ACT of 22 and that was last year. I think its more about fit than anything, but I could be wrong.
I’d advise following the 80/20 rule: 80% of the admissions decision is based on academics (GPA, SAT/ACT, strength of schedule, class rank) and 20% is based on personal qualities (essays, letters of recommendation, and teacher evaluations). Of course the tour guide is going to underestimate the importance of standardized testing. All schools do so that they attract more applicants and make the admissions process seem more “personal.” Being below the 25th percentile AND having a weak GPA make admission very challenging, especially if you’re not a hook––athlete, legacy, first-generation, or underrepresented minority. And let’s be honest: those with high test scores and high GPA’s are going to have exceptional extracurriculars as well. So, while it’s possible (and @JHUSoccer notes one person who got in), the vast majority won’t.