<p>I've heard that Ithaca puts a lot of emphasis on the SAT. Were I to try and balance out a really bad GPA, what would I need to get to wow admissions, keeping in mind that my ECs are great and I volunteer and I take the hardest classes offered?</p>
<p>I am not sure what you consider a bad gpa, since many people on here consider a 3.5 bad. I do know that Ithaca did not accept anyone below a 3.0 from our HS. I know someone who had good SAT, ACT in the range, was very well-rounded, an honored athlete, numerous hours (years) of community service, showed a passion and success in the major he applied to, involved in different areas of activities with awards and leadership positions. The gpa did not meet, I heard there 3.0 standard. But you just never know. I thought Ithaca was a definite for him, but he ended up in a reach, much better school. Good luck</p>
<p>I think it's at least partially true that Ithaca emphasizes SAT scores. However, I also agree with collegestatmom: after a point, even perfect scores and amazing extracurriculars can't cancel out a dismal GPA. I can say that my SAT scores were better than average (even for CC) and Ithaca was extremely generous with scholarship money. :D
Good luck!</p>