Applying to Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis

I'm thinking about applying to Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis and could use some advice. What are the main things I should know about their application process? Any tips for standing out in the applicant pool?

You've chosen an excellent institution in Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). Let's go over some key points about their application process, and I'll provide some tips on how you can stand out as an applicant.

IUPUI conducts a rolling admissions process, meaning there isn't a hard deadline, but you're advised to apply early. The official suggested deadline is May 1 for fall admission. The timeline is flexible, but keep in mind that financial aid and housing options may be more limited the later you apply.

Being a public research university, IUPUI places a significant emphasis on academic performance. When reviewing your application, they'll look at your high school curriculum, grade trend, and GPA. SAT or ACT scores are optional for most programs, but you might consider submitting them if you think they'll strengthen your application.

As for standing out amongst other candidates, here are a couple of suggestions:

1. Show Passion: Use your personal essay to exhibit your passion for the major you intend to pursue. If you can display a sustained interest in a field and give evidence of any relevant activities, projects, or learning experiences you've engaged in, this will be beneficial.

2. Service and Leadership: Like many institutions, IUPUI values applicants who have shown leadership qualities, engaged in their community, and demonstrated a commitment to service. Be sure to include any relevant experiences in your application.

3. Recommendations: Though IUPUI doesn't require recommendation letters, you might want to include one or two to provide additional context to your experiences and qualities.

4. Diverse Interests: Show that you have diverse interests. If you're applying for a STEM major, perhaps you could discuss your participation in a theater group. If you're applying for an arts major, maybe talk about your passion for environmental advocacy.

5. Specific Program Requirements: Some courses or programs at IUPUI may have additional application requirements. Be sure to check and fulfill them as they can vary widely across different programs.

Remember that an application is your opportunity to showcase your strengths, passions, and plan to contribute to the campus community. Good luck with your application!