How hard is it to get into St. John's College in Annapolis?

I'm really interested in attending St. John's College in Annapolis. I've heard it's pretty selective. Does anyone know the acceptance rate and anything I can do to improve my chances of getting in?

St. John's College in Annapolis is indeed selective, with an acceptance rate around 50% for the most recent fall cycle. As with most colleges, your chances of getting accepted will largely depend on how well you align with their admissions criteria, which includes looking at your academic performance, personal achievements, and your "fit" with the school’s ethos.

Academically, GPA and course rigor can make a significant difference. While they may not publish an average GPA, typically, successful applicants tend to have done well in challenging classes throughout high school. Do focus on enrolling in and doing well in AP and Honors courses too. Keep in mind that St. John's might be more lenient if there are circumstances that have impacted your academic performance, but you'll need to explain these in your application or have them explained by your counselor.

St. John’s is known for its unique “Great Books” curriculum, so showcasing a genuine love for learning and discussing literature, philosophy, and other humanities can also improve your chances. Your personal essays provide a great opportunity to express this passion, as well as to outline any meaningful extracurricular activities you've been participating in, preferably related to humanities, active discussion and debate, or community leadership.

Also, don't forget to ask for strong letters of recommendations – those coming from teachers who really know you well and can speak to your intellectual curiosity and discussion skills would be particularly useful for a school like St. John’s. A letter of recommendation can offer reinterpretations of these qualities, painting a detailed and insightful portrait of you as a candidate.

Lastly, make sure to utilize the interview process effectively, if offered. This can be a perfect place to highlight your interest in St. John's unique curriculum and culture.

So, in summary, while getting into St. John's College can be competitive, focusing on your academic performance, demonstrating a love for their unique curriculum, and highlighting your strengths in your essays and recommendations can significantly boost your chances. Good luck with your application! Keep working hard, and I'm sure it'll pay off.