5 answers
Reyaa
Student
Parker, Colorado
3
Questions
Asked
484 views
What are a few things that will help increase the chances of being accepted into an ivy league?
My dream school is Princeton and I've been working to get internships and other experiences to potentially get a good spike, and also taking classes related to the majors engineering and business, what are your thoughts?
Login to comment
5 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
657
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I have helped several students apply for admission to Ivy League universities, and here is what I encountered.
They seem to like students who are well rounded. Ones who can do well in any course that they take, no matter what the subject is. So, "Generalist's" are students they like on campus.
I also observed they like students who are dedicated to service to others. Volunteerism and community service are highly valued traits. Ones who work on projects that will make their region a better place to live, and make the lives of others better through service and volunteerism.
These were some of my observations. I hope they will help.
They seem to like students who are well rounded. Ones who can do well in any course that they take, no matter what the subject is. So, "Generalist's" are students they like on campus.
I also observed they like students who are dedicated to service to others. Volunteerism and community service are highly valued traits. Ones who work on projects that will make their region a better place to live, and make the lives of others better through service and volunteerism.
These were some of my observations. I hope they will help.
Thank you, Paul for the advice.
Reyaa
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Getting accepted into an Ivy League school like Princeton is highly competitive, but with dedication and strategic planning, you can increase your chances. Here are some tips to enhance your candidacy:
1. **Academic Excellence:** Maintain a high GPA and take challenging courses. Ivy League schools prioritize academic excellence, so perform well in honors, AP, or IB classes when available.
2. **Standardized Tests:** Prepare thoroughly for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Many Ivy League schools have optional test policies, but strong scores can still boost your application.
3. **Extracurricular Activities:** Engage in meaningful extracurricular activities. It's not about quantity but quality. Demonstrate leadership, commitment, and impact in a few activities that genuinely interest you.
4. **Passion and Focus:** Pursue your interests deeply. Ivy League schools value applicants who have a clear passion and purpose. If you're interested in engineering and business, continue to excel in these areas and seek related experiences.
5. **Community Involvement:** Show your dedication to your community through volunteer work or civic engagement. Ivy League institutions value applicants who contribute to society.
6. **Recommendations:** Request strong letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your character and abilities.
7. **Personal Essays:** Write compelling and genuine personal essays. Use this opportunity to convey your unique perspective, experiences, and what you can bring to the campus community.
8. **Demonstrate Impact:** Highlight any projects, initiatives, or leadership roles where you've made a meaningful impact. Ivy League schools are interested in candidates who can effect positive change.
9. **Research the School:** Understand each Ivy League school's values, culture, and strengths. Tailor your application to demonstrate how you align with the specific institution's values and goals.
10. **Interview Well:** If interviews are part of the application process, prepare thoroughly. Practice answering common interview questions and be ready to discuss your experiences and goals.
11. **Early Decision:** Consider applying through Early Decision if your top choice is Princeton. This shows your commitment and enthusiasm for the school, although it's a binding decision.
12. **Seek Scholarships:** Explore scholarship opportunities, both within and outside the university. Scholarships can make Ivy League education more accessible.
13. **Stay Informed:** Be aware of application deadlines, requirements, and any changes in admission policies. Each Ivy League school may have different criteria.
14. **Demonstrate Fit:** Show why you are an excellent fit for the school and how you can contribute to its community. Admissions committees want students who will thrive and make a positive impact.
15. **Stay Resilient:** Keep in mind that the Ivy League admission process is highly competitive, and rejection is common. Don't be discouraged by setbacks; keep pursuing your goals.
Remember that while Ivy League schools are prestigious, there are many outstanding colleges and universities where you can receive an excellent education. Be open to exploring a range of institutions that align with your academic and personal goals. Ultimately, your dedication, passion, and the impact you make in your chosen field will play a significant role in your future success, regardless of where you attend college.
1. **Academic Excellence:** Maintain a high GPA and take challenging courses. Ivy League schools prioritize academic excellence, so perform well in honors, AP, or IB classes when available.
2. **Standardized Tests:** Prepare thoroughly for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Many Ivy League schools have optional test policies, but strong scores can still boost your application.
3. **Extracurricular Activities:** Engage in meaningful extracurricular activities. It's not about quantity but quality. Demonstrate leadership, commitment, and impact in a few activities that genuinely interest you.
4. **Passion and Focus:** Pursue your interests deeply. Ivy League schools value applicants who have a clear passion and purpose. If you're interested in engineering and business, continue to excel in these areas and seek related experiences.
5. **Community Involvement:** Show your dedication to your community through volunteer work or civic engagement. Ivy League institutions value applicants who contribute to society.
6. **Recommendations:** Request strong letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your character and abilities.
7. **Personal Essays:** Write compelling and genuine personal essays. Use this opportunity to convey your unique perspective, experiences, and what you can bring to the campus community.
8. **Demonstrate Impact:** Highlight any projects, initiatives, or leadership roles where you've made a meaningful impact. Ivy League schools are interested in candidates who can effect positive change.
9. **Research the School:** Understand each Ivy League school's values, culture, and strengths. Tailor your application to demonstrate how you align with the specific institution's values and goals.
10. **Interview Well:** If interviews are part of the application process, prepare thoroughly. Practice answering common interview questions and be ready to discuss your experiences and goals.
11. **Early Decision:** Consider applying through Early Decision if your top choice is Princeton. This shows your commitment and enthusiasm for the school, although it's a binding decision.
12. **Seek Scholarships:** Explore scholarship opportunities, both within and outside the university. Scholarships can make Ivy League education more accessible.
13. **Stay Informed:** Be aware of application deadlines, requirements, and any changes in admission policies. Each Ivy League school may have different criteria.
14. **Demonstrate Fit:** Show why you are an excellent fit for the school and how you can contribute to its community. Admissions committees want students who will thrive and make a positive impact.
15. **Stay Resilient:** Keep in mind that the Ivy League admission process is highly competitive, and rejection is common. Don't be discouraged by setbacks; keep pursuing your goals.
Remember that while Ivy League schools are prestigious, there are many outstanding colleges and universities where you can receive an excellent education. Be open to exploring a range of institutions that align with your academic and personal goals. Ultimately, your dedication, passion, and the impact you make in your chosen field will play a significant role in your future success, regardless of where you attend college.
Victoria Parks
Medical Assistant
11
Answers
Skokie, Illinois
Updated
Victoria’s Answer
Getting accepted into an Ivy League school is highly competitive, but there are several things you can do to increase your chances:
Academic Excellence:
Maintain a high GPA throughout high school, taking challenging courses, such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes.
Score well on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.
Extracurricular Activities:
Participate in a variety of extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership, commitment, and passion. This could include clubs, sports, community service, or research.
Strong Letters of Recommendation:
Build relationships with teachers, mentors, or supervisors who can write compelling letters of recommendation on your behalf.
Personal Essay:
Write an outstanding personal essay that showcases your personality, experiences, and why you're a good fit for the school.
Demonstrate Impact:
Highlight how you've made a positive impact in your community or school through your activities and initiatives.
Interview Well:
If interviews are part of the admissions process, prepare thoroughly to articulate your goals and passion for the school.
Unique Talents or Achievements:
If you have a unique talent, skill, or achievement (e.g., published author, national-level athlete), emphasize this in your application.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Ivy League schools value diversity, so if you can bring a unique perspective or background to the campus, make sure it's highlighted.
Early Decision or Early Action:
Applying through early decision or early action can slightly increase your chances because it demonstrates your strong interest in the school.
Financial Aid and Scholarships:
Apply for financial aid and scholarships if needed. Many Ivy League schools have generous financial aid programs.
Visit and Engage:
If possible, visit the schools you're interested in and engage with the campus community. Attend information sessions and connect with current students.
Prepare for Rejection:
Understand that Ivy League schools have low acceptance rates, and many qualified applicants are not admitted. Have backup options and don't be discouraged by rejection.
Remember that while these factors can improve your chances, there are no guarantees in the highly competitive Ivy League admissions process. Be authentic in your application, showcase your true passions, and find the right fit for your academic and personal goals.
Academic Excellence:
Maintain a high GPA throughout high school, taking challenging courses, such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes.
Score well on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.
Extracurricular Activities:
Participate in a variety of extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership, commitment, and passion. This could include clubs, sports, community service, or research.
Strong Letters of Recommendation:
Build relationships with teachers, mentors, or supervisors who can write compelling letters of recommendation on your behalf.
Personal Essay:
Write an outstanding personal essay that showcases your personality, experiences, and why you're a good fit for the school.
Demonstrate Impact:
Highlight how you've made a positive impact in your community or school through your activities and initiatives.
Interview Well:
If interviews are part of the admissions process, prepare thoroughly to articulate your goals and passion for the school.
Unique Talents or Achievements:
If you have a unique talent, skill, or achievement (e.g., published author, national-level athlete), emphasize this in your application.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Ivy League schools value diversity, so if you can bring a unique perspective or background to the campus, make sure it's highlighted.
Early Decision or Early Action:
Applying through early decision or early action can slightly increase your chances because it demonstrates your strong interest in the school.
Financial Aid and Scholarships:
Apply for financial aid and scholarships if needed. Many Ivy League schools have generous financial aid programs.
Visit and Engage:
If possible, visit the schools you're interested in and engage with the campus community. Attend information sessions and connect with current students.
Prepare for Rejection:
Understand that Ivy League schools have low acceptance rates, and many qualified applicants are not admitted. Have backup options and don't be discouraged by rejection.
Remember that while these factors can improve your chances, there are no guarantees in the highly competitive Ivy League admissions process. Be authentic in your application, showcase your true passions, and find the right fit for your academic and personal goals.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1180
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Although it is unknown what people's chances are to be admitted to Princeton, there are some things you can know before hand in order to prepare yourself and increase your chances. Princeton requires an SAT score of 1490, an average ACT score of 33.5 and a high school GPA of 3.9.
So you see by this that grades are of the highest importance. When the class of '23 applied, Princeton accepted 1,895 students out of 32,804 applications indicating that it is one of the more difficult schools to receive acceptance at.
You can help your chances by having taken classes in math, lab science, foreign language, English and History. They also require an essay plus some short answers to some things they ask. Create an application that will show your achievements as this will greatly increase your chances. Your internships and other experiences will definitely contribute to making a strong application so continue with that.
I hope this was helpful and wish you all the best in your studies and preparation for Princeton !
So you see by this that grades are of the highest importance. When the class of '23 applied, Princeton accepted 1,895 students out of 32,804 applications indicating that it is one of the more difficult schools to receive acceptance at.
You can help your chances by having taken classes in math, lab science, foreign language, English and History. They also require an essay plus some short answers to some things they ask. Create an application that will show your achievements as this will greatly increase your chances. Your internships and other experiences will definitely contribute to making a strong application so continue with that.
I hope this was helpful and wish you all the best in your studies and preparation for Princeton !
A. Michelle Hawkins
Make contributions and identify volunteer opportunities for employees
108
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
A. Michelle’s Answer
Reyaa - I didn’t attend Princeton, but a different Ivy League school. Admission is competitive, but do not let that deter you from applying. A few areas on which to focus as you prepare to apply:
1. Academics - Take the most rigorous courses your high school offers and get top grades. While it is fine to focus on specific subjects, you need to take and do well in all courses. Ivies like academically well-rounded students.
2. Extracurriculars - These also help to position you as a well-rounded applicant. Of vital importance is demonstrating leadership and mastery. It could be competing on the (inter)national stage in a sport or debate, serving as editor of the newspaper or conducting independent scientific research. Providing tangible results, such as increasing viewership by xx% or managing a team of xx volunteers with a budget of $x.
3. Letters of recommendations - Get to know your teachers well enough that they relish the opportunity to speak to your accomplishments and potential.
4. Essays - Take the time you need to draft a clear and concise essay. Have your academic or college counselor review, as well as a neutral party who will provide honest, supportive feedback.
5. Interviews - If you have the opportunity to interview with admissions staff or local alumni/ae, do so. This is a way to show who you are beyond what reviewers can glean from your grades, test scores and written submissions. Be yourself and don’t hesitate to share your accomplishments. This is also a great opportunity to show your intellectual curiosity.
Ivies like to bring together groups of talented, diverse people. Diversity extends to geography, socioeconomic status, experiences and more.
1. Academics - Take the most rigorous courses your high school offers and get top grades. While it is fine to focus on specific subjects, you need to take and do well in all courses. Ivies like academically well-rounded students.
2. Extracurriculars - These also help to position you as a well-rounded applicant. Of vital importance is demonstrating leadership and mastery. It could be competing on the (inter)national stage in a sport or debate, serving as editor of the newspaper or conducting independent scientific research. Providing tangible results, such as increasing viewership by xx% or managing a team of xx volunteers with a budget of $x.
3. Letters of recommendations - Get to know your teachers well enough that they relish the opportunity to speak to your accomplishments and potential.
4. Essays - Take the time you need to draft a clear and concise essay. Have your academic or college counselor review, as well as a neutral party who will provide honest, supportive feedback.
5. Interviews - If you have the opportunity to interview with admissions staff or local alumni/ae, do so. This is a way to show who you are beyond what reviewers can glean from your grades, test scores and written submissions. Be yourself and don’t hesitate to share your accomplishments. This is also a great opportunity to show your intellectual curiosity.
Ivies like to bring together groups of talented, diverse people. Diversity extends to geography, socioeconomic status, experiences and more.
This is really helpful, thanks!
Reyaa