Hey everyone! I have my sights set on Virginia Tech, but I'm somewhat unsure of how their admissions works. Does anyone have experience with VT that could offer advice on what they look for specifically in students? I'd appreciate the help a ton!
Hello there,
Virginia Tech (VT) is fairly competitive and they do look at multiple aspects of applicants' profiles. Here are some areas they pay attention to:
1. Academic Record: This is one of the most important components. VT admissions will look at your overall GPA, rigor of your coursework (APs, Honors, etc.), and the consistency and progression of your academic performance.
2. Standardized Test Scores: As of the 2024-2025 application cycle, Virginia Tech is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. If your scores are strong, they can certainly bolster your application, but if not, they won't necessarily count against you.
3. Extracurricular Involvement: Virginia Tech values the impact students can make on their campus, so they look for evidence of commitment and leadership in a handful of extracurricular activities. Remember, quality is more important than quantity here.
4. Essays: VT uses the Coalition Application, which includes several short essays, and their prompts tend to allow students to showcase their personality, interests, and commitment to community service. These essays give you the chance to highlight aspects of your background not already covered in your application and also demonstrate why VT is a good fit for you.
Do keep in mind that admissions can vary each year based on the applicant pool. To get a better understanding of their expectations, you could contact the admissions office or even try to arrange a conversation or tour with a current VT student to get their perspective. Good luck!
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