What can I do if I have some not great grades and really want to go to a highly selective university?

Answer 1

Hello! Great question! If you're aiming for a highly selective university but have some not-great grades, there are still several strategies you can pursue to strengthen your application:

1. Emphasize Strengths in Other Areas

1. Standardized Test Scores: Strong SAT or ACT scores can help offset lower grades. Some schools are test-optional, but if your test scores are excellent, submitting them can bolster your application.
2. Extracurricular Activities: Demonstrating leadership, commitment, or significant achievements in clubs, sports, volunteer work, or other interests can showcase your dedication and well-rounded character.
3. Special Talents or Skills: Highlight any unique talents—whether in art, music, sports, or another field—that can set you apart from other applicants.

2. Show Growth or Improvement

1. Upward Grade Trend: If your grades improved over time, especially in challenging courses, highlight this in your application. This demonstrates resilience and dedication to improving your academic performance.
2. Challenging Coursework: If you’ve taken AP, IB, or honors courses, mention these as they show that you challenged yourself academically, even if the grades weren’t perfect.

3. Write a Compelling Personal Statement

1. Explain Context (If Applicable): If there were extenuating circumstances (e.g., health issues, family problems, etc.) that contributed to your lower grades, use your personal statement or additional essay to explain briefly but honestly how you overcame them.
2. Highlight Personal Growth: Use the essay to show maturity, personal growth, and self-awareness. Admissions committees value candidates who can reflect on their experiences and demonstrate growth.

4. Seek Strong Letters of Recommendation

1. Teacher Support: Get recommendations from teachers who know you well and can speak to your work ethic, character, and academic potential. A passionate letter from a teacher can offset lower grades.
2. Mentors or Community Leaders: If you have strong connections with mentors outside of school, such as coaches, employers, or community leaders, their letters can provide additional insight into your potential.

5. Consider Applying Through Special Programs

1. Bridge or Early Entry Programs: Some universities have programs designed for students with potential who may not meet traditional academic criteria. Research if any selective schools you're interested in have these programs.
2. Transfer Route: Consider attending a less selective school, working hard, and transferring to a highly selective university later. Many top universities accept transfer students who show they can excel in a college environment.

6. Target Schools Thoughtfully

1. Fit Over Prestige: It’s important to find schools where you can succeed academically and socially, not just those with prestige. Select a few highly selective schools, but also apply to schools where you have a stronger chance of admission and would be happy attending.

By showcasing your strengths, demonstrating personal growth, and applying strategically, you can create a strong case for admission even with less-than-perfect grades. I hope this was helpful. If you have any additional questions, please let me know. Take care and good luck!

Dr. Christal-Joy Turner

College admissions Officer

Answer 2

1. Remember that a primary aim of the college admission process is to gain admission to colleges that are a good fit for you. The aim is NOT to go to as selective a university as possible. Consider whether going to a highly selective university is the best choice for you. It might be. Some not great grades, though, might also indicate that a highly selective university is not a great fit for you.
2. Reflect on why you did not excel in some courses and see what can be learned from this.
3. Think about how to turn these potential negative components of your college application into positives. If you're not sure how to do this, talk with a teacher, advisor, college counselor, ...