Hey, curious junior here! What GPA should I shoot for in order to be considered for admission to Cornell University? I know it's an Ivy, but any guidance would be appreciated!
Hey there! You're right that Cornell is an Ivy League school, and competition for admission can be quite intense. In terms of GPA, while there isn't a strict cutoff, the higher, the better. The average GPA of an admitted student tends to be around 3.9 or higher. Keep in mind that Cornell, like other highly selective colleges, practices holistic admissions, so your GPA is only one piece of the puzzle.
The university will also take into account factors like the rigor of your high school curriculum, your extracurricular involvement, essays, and letters of recommendation. It's crucial to challenge yourself academically by taking advanced courses like APs and Honors classes, which will not only boost your weighted GPA but also show your commitment to intellectual growth.
Additionally, make sure you are dedicating time to your extracurriculars, pursuing your passion, and developing a "spike," which demonstrates your exceptional achievements or unique strengths in a particular area. This can be crucial in setting yourself apart from other applicants.
In summary, a high GPA is important, but just as important are other aspects of your application. Aim for a strong GPA (preferably 3.9 or higher), but also focus on your courses' rigor, extracurriculars, and the other elements of your application. Good luck!
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