My quarter ends just under two weeks after the 1D deadline. I spoke to an admissions rep who said if I apply 1D I could re-submit my transcript once my Q1 grades are finalized and probably(but not definitely) have them considered in my admissions. I would think my senior year grades are especially important considering my extenuating circumstances. If I do 2D, I would be able to submit both my Q1 and Q2 grades. I know I’m capable of earning good grades which would help my app, but I’m also under the impression that it’s quite a bit easier to get in if you apply early.
Demographics: White male in 11th grade, middle class, large Minnesota public school
Intended major:
first choice: finance(CSOM)
second choice: economics(CLA)
ACT: first attempt: 33(35 english, 31 math, 34 reading, 30 science) 9W
GPA: 3.46 UW
ECs:
job, tutoring, a few IM sports, misc. volunteering. Nothing special.
Class Rank: Top 35% (barely)
Course difficulty:
8 AP classes by graduation, a few honors classes
Extenuating Circumstances(will explain on additional info portion of app): Missed approx. 7-10 days a quarter(35 in total) during my sophomore year and 30 days my junior year because of a medical condition. It severely affected my sleep during my sophomore and junior years—I failed to get more than 4-5 hours of good sleep most nights. My condition was ‘fixed’ during the fourth quarter of junior year and I had a 3.7 GPA that quarter as a result. I had a 3.7 GPA as a freshman, 3.2 as a sophomore, and 3.4 as a junior.
The U of M admits students on a rolling basis so it’s generally better to apply sooner rather than later as spots begin filling up. If you feel confident that you can adequately explain the health issues you dealt with, I would recommend applying by the first deadline as your grades from the periods you weren’t dealing with your health issues are a lot stronger. The U should understand that your freshman year and junior year fourth quarter grades more accurately reflect your academic ability.
You can also check out the profile for admitted CSOM freshmen here:
https://admissions.tc.umn.edu/academics/profile.html
You should be able to get into CLA based on your current info (the 33 is a big deal). My own kid had the exact same stats a few years ago and was admitted to her first choice CLA in October that year. (very similar story to yours - health issues resolved in her case by Junior year with a rebound in GPA. She was also a one-and-done for her ACT).
Not sure there is any benefit in waiting for the 2nd deadline, given your stats. (low for GPA but high for ACT). A likely scenario would be that they defer you pending additional transcript information which you are planning to provide ASAP anyway and which could speed along a decision. If it doesn’t, you aren’t any worse off than if you had applied by the later date. Getting on their radar early is best, because they tend to get swamped with applications come Nov. and Dec. Although that can also mean a long wait, in your case it would imply that they are still considering you for Carlson (so not bad news at all).
To help your chances, have your HS counselor provide a letter confirming your recent academic resurgence and your readiness for Carlson. If there are unofficial midterm grades available have him/her send them along at earliest convenience. They may not count but at least the Adcom will see that you are doing everything possible to demonstrate how you’ve turned things around.
The personal statement is a great idea and provides needed context. It can only help your application. You might consider filling out that diversity statement as well in a creative way (something unique about you, a while male from MN, who can contribute to the diversity on campus). The more positive statements, the better.
Finally, make it clear why you have chosen your first and second choice majors, to help them better understand where to place you. There should be an area to explain this concisely on the application.
Good luck to you!