What are some things UW might want to see on app/things I should do to get into UW CS as a freshmen

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Washington
1

I have a 3.9 (4.39 weighted) GPA and will have at least a 29 on the act. I realise that ACT score might be a bit under that of the brainiacs that get direct admissions but I am hoping I have a chance because of the passion I have for computer science. I am also in-state.

I have been self-studying since 5th grade and have since made apps, and programs. Even more advanced things like 3D graphics engines, and game engines.

I have been waiting for a very long time to finally get formalised training in computer science, and having another year where I am in classes that I enjoy but am not passionate about will be a deal killer. If it comes to it I would probably choose a different school that allowed me to start as a freshmen even if it means giving up the INCREDIBLE program UW has. Who knows, I may even come to UW for my masters.

I am just wondering what are some types of projects I should add onto what I am already doing?

Is there some way to visit UW and maybe show an admissions person some of the stuff I have self-taught so it can help (or hurt) my application to the school?

Do I have any hope with that low of an ACT score?

Any advice is appreciated.

2

If you are admitted as pre-engineering, you still take engineering classes starting freshman year. It is not like you aren’t allowed to take any CS classss or join any CS clubs if you aren’t direct admit. The first two computer science courses are part of the requirements to apply to the major. However, you aren’t guaranteed a spot in the major just by finishing the classes. It’s competitive admissions.

Here are the classes you need to take your first one or two years to apply to CS if you are not direct admit:

http://www.cs.washington.edu/prospective_students/undergrad/admissions/upper_division

Five credits is one class. Three classes per quarter is a full load. The students who meet the prereqs in one year are starting with AP or Running Start credits. Most do a combination of general education requirements and engineering prereqs over two years.

The kids getting direct admit really do seem to walk on water, and I know lots of families with great kids who only got into pre-engineering. Calculus in high school seems to be very helpful, but that by itself is probably not enough.