<p>(Sorry in advance if this isn't the correct forum. I literally just joined five minutes ago). </p>
<p>My top school is California State University Northridge, however due to my GPA only being average compared to their standards, I'm afraid I won't stand out enough and won't get in. Another problem: they don't ask for letters of recommendation or extracurricular activities, so they'll only be seeing my grades and my grades only. </p>
<p>They say the online application is much quicker and faster, however they do offer a paper application to mail in as well. Would it raise my chances if I submitted the paper application (even though the online app is preferred), but attach a professional, well-written cover letter that demonstrates my passion for this school? Or should I just submit the online app like everyone else?</p>
<p>Just submit the online app…if they don’t want to look for LOR or ECs, that means they have so many people applying that they don’t have time for that. So they also won’t have time for a cover letter, and most likely won’t be interested in people that can’t follow the instructions.</p>
<p>There are times to color outside the lines, but I don’t think this is it. Not saying the mail-in option is bad, but more like a waste of time. It’s probably there for people who don’t have computer access, not to turn your application into a holistic one. Odds, are, it’s a very numbers driven, bureaucratic place, and they don’t have time or pay attention to anything other than the numbers.</p>
<p>It absolutely is a numbers driven institution. If your GPA/Test scores are in the range – you’re in: they have a 42% admit rate. Google the “common data set, CSU Northridge” and see how you compare to admitted students. You can be sure that those rejected fell below the range of their accepted kids. They aren’t rejecting kids solidly in the GPA and test score range.</p>