How difficult is it to get into UPenn when applying ED? Is there anyone who hs knowledge and insight as to how to maximize chances for ED applicants?
It depends on which school at Penn you apply to (Wharton, SEAS, CAS). Obviously all of them are easier in the ED cycle than RD, but they are still quite difficult. The ED acceptance hovers around a little under 20% I believe. If you apply to Wharton, it’s even harder. One aspect that may make you a better fit for Penn (in the AOs’ eyes) would be to show a level of interdisciplinary learning and love for expanding your interests/knowledge outside of one single field. Penn has a “one university” policy which means you are allowed to take courses outside of your major and in other schools. They definitely encourage students who are able to take advantage of these opportunities.
Could you give some more background about yourself so we can see how to ‘maximize’ your chances?
Sure well, I come from one of the best public high schools in the country and am applying to the SEAS and the M&T program so it will definitely be hard and I have come to terms with that fact. However, there is a runoff in case I am not selected for M&T and I have selected Engineering to be the School in that case with Computer Science as my major. I have taken the highest level math and physics classes available (Complex Analysis which is higher than Multivariable calculus) and Quantum physics and the most challenging computer science courses available. I have good grades and very good test scores but that’s not uncommon. Can you provide any extra insight on how to set myself apart from the many just like me and advice on how to approach the supplementals and specifics on the M&T program?
@johnrbert21 Interesting… you have a great interest in math and physics clearly, which will definitely show on your application. The good grades/test scores is good (I hope you mean basically perfect, like 3.95+ UW and 34+ ACT) because almost everyone in Penn’s dual degree programs has these basically perfect grades/test scores. There is one concern I have though: you didn’t tell me any of your actual ECs, you only talked about taking hard classes. Although classes are one type of interest, getting out in the real world and applying them in some way is even more valuable. You can’t count “took a really hard math/physics class” as an EC. I’m hoping you have more ECs than what you listed, because if not, there’s a pretty low chance you can get in. Your ECs will also help you define your M&T essay by showing that you’ve have an idea about ways the intersection of business and technology could be applied in real life an are interested in it (this doesn’t mean having a lot of business experience though).
I would say to maximize your chance you really need to bring in some ECs on the application, and these will be the real thing that help you stand out. Otherwise, taking classes won’t be enough.
BTW, take this with a grain of salt as I am speaking from knowing many students in the program. I am personally a high schooler like you who is seeking to apply to Penn’s life sciences and management degree (as selective as M&T, just with a different focus). All the things I am telling you can definitely be applied to myself also. (You can check out my stats here: http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/university-pennsylvania/2093713-chance-me-for-upenn-lsm-ed.html#latest)
PS. I think you definitely have a pretty good shot at SEAS.
I think my ECs were up to par as well with some research and leadership positions but good luck on your application process and thanks for the help.
Can you PM me @nvb123 im still a new member so I cant do that