<p>My dream school is NYU. I have wanted to be there since 6th grade, but of course throughout my first two years at high school (I am a junior) I slacked off, and didn't really try, there were extenuating circumstances for my abysmal grades, but there really isn't much I can do to that effect when NYU sees my GPA which is a 2.9 (at the end of sophomore year). However, if I really focus and get straight A's all of this year, with AP/IB classes, my GPA should be raised to a 3.5, and including senior year grades (assuming all A's again) it could be raised to a solid 3.7 (weighted, unweighted 3.5)(this is all coming from my counselor). I received a 1950 on my first SAT attempt, but it was only the first time and was without prep, so I am confident that I can raise it. Also, I have extensive extra curricular activities including: voice lessons, dance classes, over 15 productions (shows) throughout high school, internship at the Shakespeare Theatre Company, part time job, camp counselor at local theatres, and independent traveling (backpacking throughout Ireland and England). Is the chance of me getting accepted into NYU even probable, or should I just start looking at schools where I have a more solid chance of getting in? Or if there's anything I can do to improve my chances. Seeing as I'm a junior, I still have some time. Thank you!</p>
<p>A few things (reality check time):
If you’ve been running a 2.9, it’s highly improbable that you would get “straight A’s” going forward especially with an AP class load.</p>
<p>A 1950 is about 200 points bellow the line for NYU <em>with</em> an in-line GPA (3.5 or greater).</p>
<p>I’m not saying that you have no chance, but it’s going to be quite a big reach (bordering on out-of-reach) for you.</p>
<p>I have had a 2.9 due to the fact that I have missed so much school due to an illness, which I have thankfully been clear of, I have the means to get straight A’s, I just never had the time</p>
<p>You can usually explain unusual circumstances that caused a lower GPA in your application. If you had to take time off due to an illness, mention this in your application and also have your guidance counselor make note of it in your recommendation.</p>
<p>If you do raise your GPA to a 3.5 and get a 2000+ on your SATs then you should have a pretty decent chance. You are already at a 1950, so just study a little more a try to raise it 100-200 points.</p>
<p>If you’re still in your sophomore year, I think you can bring your SAT up quite a bit. Your GPA has reasoning behind it, but be sure to explain it thoroughly - even so, it will make things a bit harder.</p>