I am interested in studying philosophy and biology at UT-Dallas (double major). Will I be more likely to be admitted into the university (I’m considered an average applicant) if I choose a less competitive major, like philosophy? I know biology is competitive wherever you go. I’m not set on studying it. So, if it means I would have a higher likelihood of getting in, I’d definitely be willing to just apply as a philosophy major. Thanks in advance for your opinion.
UT Dallas admits into the entire university, not into a specific major. That would be an issue at some schools, but not at UTD unless they have recently changed their admission policies. The last Visit Day I went to was 3 years ago and at that time, they said they do not admit into specific majors and your choice of major has nothing to do with your acceptance.
What are your stats? UT-Dallas is not particularly competitive.
ACT is closer to 25th percentile (24 composite), 4.0 GPA (homeschooled but used accredited online curriculum & took all honors courses), 3.5 college GPA w/ over 40 credit hours. 10/10 letter of rec. 9/10 essay.
With a 3.5 college GPA and over 40 credits, surely you can improve on that ACT.
I have taken the ACT 3 times. I got a 23, then a 24, then a 23. I figure there’s no use in re-taking it. I tried the SAT, and am getting my score back soon.
Okatef - great job doing so much with your homeschooling. Do you have a hint of any learning or visual disabilities that prevent you from moving fast enough on the ACT? Sometimes homeschooling can mask those issues a little, though if you have been in accredited classes you have probably taken many timed tests. Was just curious. You don’t have to answer - just something to think about.
@SouthFloridaMom9 Thanks for your reply! I don’t have a disability. My ACT isn’t bad, it is just not great for UTD. I honestly don’t believe my standardized test scores are an accurate representation of my capabilities as a student. Unfortunately, the ACT is very much a comprehensive test, and I didn’t take care of business in school until about 9th grade. My half-hearted effort in my elementary years has come back to bite me, especially in math. This is why my ACT is average, and low for UTD. My application is very strong in all other areas. I know UTD is a state school so they weight test scores heavily, but do you think I still stand a fair chance of being admitted? Thanks!
No, it’s not at all. I only asked because your other stats seem pretty high. In Texas the average is 20.9 (but not all students take ACT). Heck in Florida it’s 19.9. https://www.act.org/newsroom/data/2015/states.html
Unfortunately I don’t know anything about UTD, but I’m hoping that your application as a whole carries the day, especially because your dual enrollment credits are significant with good grades.
Thanks for your input! Really appreciate it!