Hi, I’m currently a high school sophomore who wants to study undergraduate programs in America. My planned major is computer science and my dream school is the University of Maryland college park. My current unweighted GPA is 3.65 and I have completed my first high school sophomore year. However, in my junior year, I have a chance to attend a private school in Washington, Tacoma. The school is way better than the international school I’m studying at currently in terms of both extracurricular and academic with a national robotic team, yet, I heard that it is way more rigorous than my current high school so my GPA might go down. Does moving school from my country to America provides me a better chance at the University of Maryland college park or should I just stay at my international school. Which one is the more beneficial choice. Thank you
Sorry if i post on the wrong forum, first time posting on College Confidential.
I don’t think it would matter. From an admissions standpoint, you will be in the “international pool” of applicants no matter where you graduate because it is based on citizenship. In addition, because it is a state school, Maryland residents will get admission priority over both international AND out of state students.
From a general opportunity standpoint, it may be worth making the switch, but that’s a personal decision that should be made independently of UMD admissions considerations.
You should find out where students like you have been admitted after attending the particular private school. The counselors there will be happy to give you that informationi.
IMO it is a mistake to fixate on any one college. The people I see who get most hurt by the college admission process are the ones who focus on one or schools and then don’t get in
Instead I suggest that when the time comes you work to create a solid college list that includes reach, match, and safety schools that appear affordable (find out your parents’ budget and run the net price calculator for each school) and that you would be happy to attend.
University of Washington is outstanding. Perhaps being local you would have an edge over other international students and could visit etc. it’s really a great school. Add a few schools to your dream list. It’s really hard for international students. Apply widely.
Sounds like the school in Washington has some significant opportunity that you don’t have at the moment. If you’re willing to work hard and think the adjustment will be fine / not-too-difficult, this extra opportunity could significantly boost your chances of admission! However, it comes down to fit at the end of the day - there’s no point moving to that school and just being unhappy or not liking the environment