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Hello Northwestern Guru's/Applicants,

I was wondering if SAT IIs were required for the College of Arts and Sciences. I have taken the Math SAT II and got a 770, but i don't want to take any ohters. Also what do you think my chances are with a 1440 single test and a 4.1 GPA on a 4.0 scale (the 8 APs ahve helped my chance)? I am also a member of several clubs and on the varsity tennis team; and "medaled" in the junior olympics in table tennis. Any response would be greatly appreciated!

By Zcat18 (Zcat18) on Thursday, September 16, 2004 - 08:55 pm: Edit

They're not required--just recommended. They suggest you take Writing, Math, and one other of your choice, but it's not mandatory that you take the tests. Not taking the tests will raise questions as to your motivation.

Your chances seem decent. What's your class rank? Do you hold any leadership positions in your clubs? How are your writing skills?

By Buckwald (Buckwald) on Thursday, September 16, 2004 - 09:21 pm: Edit

I am applying ED to Northwestern so im hoping that helps. I am top 25% in a grade of 179 that has 32 national merrit semi-finalists and is one of the most competitve schools- Pine Crest School. I am founder of the Asian Club, on the editorial staff of the schools politcal newsletter, and am a member of 3 other clubs. My writing skills are alright, but i really don't want to take SAT II Writing. Also do you think being Asian will hurt me? Thanks for all your help!

By Zcat18 (Zcat18) on Friday, September 17, 2004 - 02:49 am: Edit

As an ED applicant, you have more leeway than do other applicants. I'm a bit worried about your class rank, but I am familiar with Pine Crest (in FL, right?) and believe that you should be able to get away with not taking that SAT II Writing. Simply make sure that you demonstrate a high level of writing proficiency in your essays, and do what you can to "play up" the ECs and leadership roles you have. Founding the Asian Club and being an editor of the newspaper are very valuable additions to an ED application. Being Asian won't hurt you. It simply won't help you; it's a neutral criterion. Make sure you do everything you can to make yourself stand out a bit. Highlight the process of founding the Asian Club at your school, and make sure you submit some additonal writing samples from your school's political newspaper.

Cover all of your bases, and I'd say you're a very solid candidate for ED admission. RD might be another story, but thankfully, you don't have to worry about that. Good luck, and post again if you have any other questions or concerns.