How competitive are Baruch admissions?

I'm planning to apply to Baruch College and would love to know how competitive the admissions process is right now. What kind of stats should I aim for and are there any specific aspects of the application they focus on?

Baruch College, part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, has been known to be moderately competitive. The acceptance rate varies, but it’s generally around 51%.

When it comes to academic statistics, a competitive applicant typically has a GPA of 3.3 and above, but remember that Baruch does consider other factors beyond grades. In terms of standardized tests, Baruch is currently test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you opt to submit, an SAT score between 1210 and 1410, or an ACT score between 25 and 30, can be considered competitive. Still, not submitting won't necessarily put you at a disadvantage.

Aside from your academic performance, Baruch values your extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and personal character, which they discern through your application essays and activities list. Since Baruch is a business-focused school, they might be particularly interested in seeing business-related activities or experiences, but any experience where you demonstrated passion, leadership, or commitment can make you a viable candidate.

Finally, your application essay is another integral part of your application. It's your chance to showcase what makes you unique, why you're interested in Baruch, and how you align with the college's mission and values. Make sure to take this aspect of your application seriously, as it can tip the scales in your favor.

Remember though, it's essential to fit well with the college in terms of its ethos, academic offerings, and culture, rather than just get accepted. Good luck with your application!