Penn State: Do I even have a chance

Colleges and Universities A-Z Penn State
1

I want to apply to Penn State UP but I have a 77 overall average. Do I have absolutely any shot of getting in or is it not even worth apply

2

@alexandralwr I’m not sure how a 77 compares, but it sounds like it would be in the 2.5 range? If that is so, I would say you are a longshot, but want to throw out two things.

  1. college is competitive. Unless you have a strong upward trend, I would caution you that you would be easily lost freshman year at UP.

  2. Have you considered a commonwealth campus? Altoona, Behrend, Harrisburg, etc.? You would start there for 2 years and move to UP for your final two years. About half of graduating seniors start at a campus other than UP. This would give you an opportunity to hit the ground running and have some early success (hopefully) before being thrown into a large campus environment as a freshman.

Are you in-state? Could you save some money and stay at home at a different campus while working hard as a freshman not to get lost?

Just some thought-starters.

3

You might not have the best chances, but it’s worth a shot! Just make sure to select a second choice campus.

Also, UP for freshman and sophomore years can be difficult. Gen Ed classes are very large; it’s a completely new learning environment compared to high school. Starting at another campus and then finishing at UP may be a better plan.

Anyway, good luck! Also, SAT scores, difficult classes, and extracurriculars can improve your chances!

4

I was wondering if I have a good chance in Smeal. 3.8. GPA on 4.0 scale, 1290 SAT and very good business related extra circulars and good essay and personal statement. Should I apply to Smeal or DUS. Also, I do have the option of not submitting my SAT score so would I be better off not submitting it and applying to Smeal?