<p>I started a software company late sophomore year and may soon close a deal with another company for a mobile contract worth a fair bit of money (don't want to disclose much info but around the 30k mark). If I'm applying to top tier schools with good test scores can this make up for a pretty crummy GPA? (3.4-5 with a 3.7 weighted?). I know most school at the HPY level look for more in the 3.8-40 un weighted but can my ECs make up for that?</p>
<p>Very selective schools value the GPA/transcript more than anything else. I would say your business doesn’t make up for the GPA. Frankly, the sorts of schools you’ll likely be targeting won’t take into account ECs at all. Good luck</p>
<p>Starting a business that you can sell for a fair bit of money is a great looking EC. It shows hard work, business ability, etc.</p>
<p>The question is how much will it help --</p>
<p>Here’s my guess – doubtful that it’s enough for a school like HYP. But move down a notch or two and schools that would be far reaches for you now become realistic reaches (meaning that you might impress some ad committee into taking a chance on you because of your accomplishment).</p>
<p>I think your job is to look for schools that value entrepreneurs – something like Lehigh comes to mind (but I’m sure there are others).</p>
<p>Finally – and I know that others disagree with me on this issue – if HYP is really your dream, AND if the application cost is not major for your family AND if you’re well on the way to completing applications for schools where you have a more realistic shot, why not apply? In your case, you have a story to tell. Don’t get your hopes up, but all it really costs you is a few bucks and a few hours of your time.</p>
<p>One thing to consider…any assets in your name will make any need based aid very hard to come by. You may want to consider repositioning your assets if you hope to get need based aid.</p>