The recommended word length is 250-500 for all three questions which is quite short. Should I get straight to the point? Like for the leadership question can I just start talking about some of my ECs and how I’ve demonstrated leadership in them? Is it more about the substance than the writing style? Since there is no EC page I wanted to show my passions and EC involvement as much as I could through these. There’s not much room for an intro, conclusion, etc. It seems much more direct than a typical essay where you focus a lot more on style and flow.
Also for the academic info session, will it look bad if my class rank doesn’t match up exactly with what I self report when official transcripts are required? My actual rank most likely will not change in the next few months but the number of students in my class keeps fluctuating so it might not even be accurate in a few weeks. I am just going off of what my transcript says that my GC gave my a few weeks ago.
- If you look through old threads, the recommend total is 500 for all three prompts. However, you will not be penalized if you go a little over. You do not need an intro, conclusion, etc. Stats are the main way to get into Pitt.
- I would maybe just email admissions and tell them that even though your grades and rank aren't fluctuating, there are always people leaving and entering your school. Say that you put your rank when you got your transcript but due to this it may change a little. They will understand and will not hold it against you.
@soyunchico Thanks for the response. I know numbers are key for Pitt, but I am trying for some merit aid and I have pretty strong objective stats. I’m trying to do my best on the short answer questions to increase my chances as much as possible.
@hailtopitt1787 Is it true that I should contact admissions if my class rank changes(mainly by number in class increasing/decreasing) by the end of high school? It seems like a common thing to happen so I didn’t think it would matter much. Also, its not big changes, but it is a change and I want my profile to be as accurate as possible.
@classof2017, Please report what is on your transcript currently. We understand that rank can change over time. No need to contact us.
Best,
A Pitt Admissions Staffer
I was under the impression that GPA and rank would be from end of junior year, especially if you applied in July/Aug