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What are my chances on getting into NYU and how can I increase them?

I am a junior in Highschool and I currently have a 3.8 weighted GPA. By this summer I should have at least a 30 superscore ACT. 100 community service hours but maybe closer to 200. I would plan on majoring in mechanical engineering and Asian Studies so I have many STEM and language extracurriculars. I have leadership positions and I'm active in my community. I'm a junior so I don't have to write my essay just yet but I think the idea I have for it is pretty good. By my senior year I will have 10-12 APs and 5-7 honors. I'll have 4 years plus AP Spanish credit and 2 years of Chinese. I have research hours and awards in competitions.

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Doc’s Answer

Genesis consider applying Early Decision (ED). Applying as a early decision will significantly increase your chances of acceptance, as ED acceptance rates are often higher than regular decision rates, as your demonstrating a strong commitment to the NYU.

EARLY DECISION
Colleges value ED applicants because they show a genuine commitment to the institution, which can be a significant advantage in the admissions process. ED applicants often have higher acceptance rates than those applying through regular decision. Since early decision is considered BINDING, you’re only allowed to apply to one school at a time under early decision. You can apply to other schools through most early action processes or the regular decision cycle, but you can only apply to a single early decision school. Applying to more than one could result in rejection letters from both if they find out – and schools do share lists.

EARLY ACTION
Early Action or (EA) is another early application option, but unlike early decision, these applications aren’t binding. You don’t have to attend if you’re accepted, and you usually have until May 1 to let the school know if you will be attending. It’s simply a way for students to express their specific interest in a college and get an early response, which makes it an ideal application process if you’re very interested in one school. In most cases, you can apply to as many early action schools as you’d like. However, some colleges have started introducing “restrictive early action.” These ask that you only apply to one school under early action. As with early decision applications, applying to more than one school under restrictive early action can result in rejection letters from both schools.

ED AND EA CAUTIONS
Committing to one college puts pressure on you to make serious decisions before you've explored all your other options. Also by applying under ED you'll receive your admission and financial aid simultaneously and so will not be able to compare financial aid offers from other colleges. For students who absolutely need financial aid, applying early may be a risky option. Remember most colleges do not notify ED and EA applicants of admission until December 15. Because of the usual deadlines for applications, this means that if your rejected by the ED college, there are only two weeks left to send in other applications.
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Diana’s Answer

Genesis, you're doing fantastic! You're on a promising path to NYU, and there are a few ways to boost your chances even more:

1. GPA & Coursework:
Your 3.8 weighted GPA is impressive, especially with the challenging AP courses ahead. Keep up the hard work in your senior year as you tackle 10-12 APs and honors classes.

Choose courses that match your interests, like advanced math and science for mechanical engineering, to show your dedication to your field.

2. ACT/SAT Scores:
A 30 superscore ACT is great, but aiming for a 32-33 can make you even more competitive for NYU’s engineering and Asian Studies programs. Consider retaking the ACT if you think you can improve, or try the SAT if it feels like a better fit.

Strong test scores are important, so prepare well for your exams.

3. Extracurriculars:
Your involvement in STEM and language activities is fantastic! Keep pushing yourself in these areas.

Look for leadership roles in clubs like robotics or engineering, or get more involved in Asian Studies activities like language or cultural clubs.

Think about internships, research, or projects in mechanical engineering to really stand out.

4. Community Service & Leadership:
Your community service and leadership roles are excellent. Continue taking on leadership, especially in STEM or community projects that show your initiative and impact.

Aim for 200 community service hours, but focus on meaningful work related to your interests, like engineering, language, or cultural understanding.

5. Essays & Letters of Recommendation:
Your college essay is crucial. Tell a unique story that connects your passion for mechanical engineering and Asian Studies, and explain how you’ll contribute at NYU.

Choose teachers for recommendations who know your strengths in STEM and language. Their strong letters can really help your application.

6. Research & Competitions:
Your research and competition achievements are impressive. Keep participating in competitions or research, especially related to mechanical engineering or Asian Studies, to show your passion and drive.

7. Additional Tips:
NYU values diversity and global perspectives, so your language skills in Spanish and Chinese are a big plus.

Look into specific programs or scholarships at NYU that fit your interests in engineering or Asian Studies.

In summary, you're on a wonderful track! Keep focusing on your academics, excel in your extracurriculars, and make sure your application tells a compelling story of your achievements and passions. You've got this!
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