Hey folks! I'm very much interested in applying to Cornell University. But I'm unsure about the grades they expect for admission. Can anyone provide some insight into the average GPA or grade requirements for Cornell? Don't want to get my hopes too high up if it's out of reach.
Sure, I can definitely provide some insight into this.
Like most Ivy League colleges, Cornell University looks for students who excel academically. While there isn't an official GPA requirement from the university, Cornell is highly competitive, and the majority of admitted students tend to have very high GPAs. For reference, the average high school GPA of admitted students is typically around 4.07.
However, you should note that your GPA is just one element of your application that admissions officers will consider. Cornell reviews applications in a holistic manner, which means they consider your entire application — including your essays, recommendation letters, extracurricular activities, and commitment to your chosen field of study — not just your GPA.
A strong GPA can certainly boost your chances, but it's not the only factor that can get you admitted. A lower GPA might be offset if you have strong extracurriculars, letters of recommendation, and essays. At the same time, even if your GPA meets the average, it's still important to ensure the other parts of your application are strong to further boost your chances of admission.
That being said, if you're truly passionate about attending Cornell, I would encourage you to apply regardless of whether your GPA is above or below the average. It's always possible that the other components of your application might resonate with the admissions committee and tip the scales in your favor. Best of luck!
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