Chances at UC Berkeley?

Question

I'm about to start my senior year in a few days and my goal is to get into UC Berkeley but I'm not so sure about my chances. So far I've been in the IB program, and plan to get the IB Diploma. IB classes are honors and are like AP. I've taken 1 AP test (History) on which I received a 4 and I do plan to take more. I'm not really in many clubs, only National Honors Society. My SAT score was a total of 1730 and I plan on taking the ACT. I've done some volunteer work. I think that's it? So what are my chances? Any recommendations on things I SHOULD do?

Answer 1

I just finished my first year at Berkeley, and it's definitely a good choice... GO BEARS! But that's not what you asked about...

It's important to know that there is no formula for getting into a competitive university. I had a friend who had a very similar application to mine who didn't get in. Berkeley reviews applications as a whole, so it's important for you to be strong in many areas, but they won't reject someone just because they have a low-ish GPA or not many AP scores.

I would suggest working hard on your essay--its short, but don't sell it short: write a few drafts, have it looked over by a teacher or counselor or someone else who knows what they're talking about.

Make sure you stick with whatever you're involved in. From everything I've heard, reviewers are interested in seeing commitment to your activities, so don't join a bunch of clubs just to have a lot to put on your application. It would be better to focus on school, especially AP.

Also, if that was your first time taking the SAT, either take, or just practice the ACT once, decided which test works better for you, and retake that one. I was always told that it doesn't necessarily help you to have both, but taking one twice and showing improvement might. Also, make sure you take some subject tests if you retake the SAT.

Sorry that was long, I hope it was helpful!!

*edit: Sorry, one more thing, make sure you know the requirements for admissions (there might be more info on this site as well, I don't remember)

http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/ad...

also, I just thought of something else, when you apply, don't just include the things you thing they want/expect to see... I included babysitting, dance classes I took, summer camps I went to... they want to see what opportunities you've taken advantage of, even if it isn't through school

Answer 2

Your SAT score is a problem. Average for Cal is 2050 and keeps going up. If you can raise your score or get a 30 plus on the ACT you'll have a good chance.

Answer 3

Berkeley focuses more on grades, leadership, and community service.  Do take the ACT plus Writing Assessment to see if you can do better.  It might be too late for you to do anything about clubs and community service.  See if you can organize some type of volunteer effort on your high school campus; that always go over well with Berkeley.

Answer 4

you should do more only because UC berkeley is really difficult. I went to Grad school there and I had to do a lot. In coming freshman have it really hard because they only want the best.it also depends on what you want to major in. Try student council.