<p>Would it be easier to apply to schools like the ivies, Georgetown, Duke, Cornell, etc. claiming I want to major in STEM? I feel like these schools get lots of social science majors and are looking more for people interested in STEM even though they may not have the best programs for these types of people. Do I have a better chance of acceptance if I claim that I want to major in Math as opposed to Political Science? Will I stand out more if I state that I want to major in STEM?</p>
<p>If your claimed major is inconsistent with your academic record, essays, and extracurriculars, then that may be a disadvantage in admissions. E.g. if you took all of the possible social studies courses in high school, but stopped math after algebra 2 and wrote essays about your involvement in voter registration and similar extra curriculars, then naming math as your intended major would seem inconsistent.</p>
<p>In addition, some schools may have internal divisions, so that changing major, especially across divisions, may require an application process.</p>
<p>Also, STEM majors, particularly biology, tend to be popular at many selective schools.</p>