What are the UTK admission requirements?

I'm looking into applying to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and I'm trying to figure out their admission requirements. Does anyone know what GPA and test scores they're looking for, or if there's anything specific I should highlight in my application?

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), considers several factors when evaluating a prospective student's application. Here's a quick rundown:

1. Course Rigor: UTK favors applicants who have chosen a rigorous course load in high school. They like to see that you've challenged yourself with Honors, AP or IB classes if they were available at your school.

2. GPA: While UTK doesn't publicize a specific GPA cutoff, it does emphasize the importance of maintaining strong academic performance throughout high school. For the Class of 2024, the middle 50% of students had a GPA between 3.6 and 4.0 on a 4.0 scale, which should give you a general idea of the kind of GPA you should aim for.

3. Standardized Test Scores: For the 2024-2025 academic year, UTK is test-optional, which means that you can decide whether or not to submit your SAT/ACT test score as part of your application. But if you want to consider it, the middle 50% of admitted students had an ACT score between 26 and 31, and an SAT score between 1190 and 1370.

4. Extracurricular Involvement: UTK wants its students to be well-rounded and involved in their communities. Therefore, it's beneficial to dedicate time to a few extracurricular activities that you're truly passionate about, as opposed to spreading yourself thin across many. They're looking for commitment and leadership experience in these activities.

5. Application Essays: The UTK application includes several short answer questions and one longer essay. These are your opportunity to share more about who you are, your goals, and why you're interested in UTK. Be sure to take the time to craft thoughtful, genuine responses.

6. Letters of Recommendation: UTK does not require letters of recommendation from all applicants, but you are welcome to submit them if you believe they will strengthen your application. If you choose to do so, it's generally best to request recommendations from individuals who can speak to your academic abilities and personal qualities.

Keep in mind that while meeting these benchmarks can improve your chances of admission, UTK uses a holistic review process, meaning that all aspects of your application will get considered. This includes your academic achievements, personal experiences, and unique talents or abilities. So make sure every part of your application is as strong as it can be! Good luck!