Vanderbilt Low GPA, High ACT upward trend?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Vanderbilt University
1

Hi guys I was curious how Vanderbilt would look at someone who has a relatively low GPA at 3.45, but a 33 C on the ACT (33 E, 28 M, 36 R, 33 S). I’m applying from a gap year right now so my full senior year will show and I have a 3.9 GPA in senior year (sharp spike in grades). Im debating between Vassar and Vanderbilt for ED I, so if I did do my ED to Vanderbilt what would my chances look like? (Or Vassar for that matter).

I completed the IB Diploma. Courses: IBH Biology, IBH Global Politics, IBH History, IBS Lang and Lit, IBS Spanish, IBS Math Studies, TOK

Extracurriculars:

  • Started an organization which is working with NGO’s in Pakistan to build schools (put a lot of time into this - it’s my main EC)
  • Shadowed a Lawyer and a Doctor
  • School Basketball team
  • Former Vice President of Chess Club
  • Executive position in Diversity Awareness
  • Former head of schools Accounting and Finance Club
  • Volunteered at a school in my area
  • Project Manager of Schools Photography club
  • Participant in a cultural exchange program

(On a gap year right now because of family situation regarding parent’s health and I’m going to be working with a Lawyer during this time to gain some work experience while working on my organization)

So what’re my chances to Vanderbilt ED 1 (or Vassar for that matter)?

2

Wouldn’t really say high ACT, but your main EC seems interesting? I’m not sure how liberal arts colleges would do admissions, but I’d say try the school you like better. I’m currently at vandy and, if you are trying to get to law school, there is a fairly easy path to getting a high gpa.