I would be ecstatic if I got into UCLA and/or Cal. However, my stats are very low (I messed up a lot in sophomore and junior year), and I was wondering if I should even bother applying to these schools. I know most of you will say “apply, there’s no harm in trying,” but I don’t want to waste my time/effort applying to schools where I have absolutely no chance.
GPA 10-11 (uncapped): 4.60W/3.80W
UC GPA: 4.07 W
School doesn’t rank
4 AP’s sophomore, 7 junior
ACT: 35C
AP scores: Chem 4, world 4, calc AB 5, psych 5
SAT IIs (planning to retake): math II 770, chem 720
I know there’s more to the application than just numbers, but based on stats alone, would I have any chance at Cal or UCLA? Intended major is biology/biochemistry.
And no I’m not trying to brag or fish for compliments or anything, I really don’t think my stats are satisfactory.
On the surface, your stats look good enough to apply. Of course they look at other factors: essays, extra curricular activities, etc.
Definitely worth an application since your Stats are within range and your essays/EC’s could help your chances.
@UCBUSCalum @Gumbymom Thank you both for your input!
Both would be reaches, but they’d be realistic reaches. I’d say go for it.
Not a waste of time. Definitely apply, write a great essay that really conveys who you are rather than what you think they want to hear, and good luck!
Yes you should but, understand, those schools reject thousands of applicants with your stats every year. Apply broadly. Good luck.
Here’s a link to the UC admissions website with links to every UC campus and information about the class entering in Fall 2015:
http://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/freshman/profiles/index.html
You may want to broaden your applications beyond Berkeley and UCLA to include other UC options, too.
@siliconvalleymom Oh yes I’ll definitely apply beyong UCLA and UCB. I was just wondering if I had a shot at those two since they’re the most competitive of the bunch
If you are planning on applying to any UC schools, then there is no additional “time or effort” wasted after the first one, since you will just check more boxes on the UC application to add more options.
You still have six months before you will file your UC application. You could spend time focusing on finishing this semester with the best grades possible. You may also consider reviewing the many resources available on the UC admissions websites for how to create the strongest possible application.
