What are my chances of getting into the University of Chicago as a foreign applicant?

Question

Okay, I did my 9th and 10th grade in a Filipino school. I did fairly okay in 9th grade (an 81% average) then I greatly improved in 10th grade (89% average).

I then transferred to an international school and got straight As, but sadly they didn't offer any AP classes or any extra-curricular activities.

I applied and got accepted (40% acceptance rate) into a summer college preview program that ran for three weeks. I did volunteer works under the non-profit organization, Reach Out To Asia and I did that for two non-consecutive days; on a positive note, I'll be continuing my services to that organization.

I also have a work experience because of a summer job at a bank. I didn't do all the major stuff but I was able to educate myself towards the atmosphere of a work environment. On another positive note, I didn't take the summer job for the sake of having a job, I devoted my time on that because it's been a childhood dream for me to work in a bank. Now, that dream came true temporarily.

My senior year started today, the first day rather. I transferred to a better school, American School of Doha, and is signed up for two AP classes (Calculus AB and English Literature) and one honors class (Physics). I'm planning to join the honors society (if I make the cut-off GPA) or the MUN (Model United Nations) group.

I have my SATs this October and since U of Chicago does not require the SAT Subject Tests, I might not do them anymore. Plus, I have my TOEFL around October or November.

My writing, I say it with pride, is excellent. In addition, I'm an avid writer of various topics. I simply love writing. And reading also, I read a book everyday. I'm a clean person, I have no criminal record or any negative offenses that I've committed in the past. (check my blog site at http://interxavier.multiply.com)

What are my chances? What else do I have to do to improve my chances? Am I eligible for financial aid? Or Scholarships?

Furthermore, I'm interested in applying for their Economics major.

And Lastly, I live in Doha, Qatar. I'm not a local, in case you wonder.

Answer 1

university of chicago places a strong emphasis on the the admission essay. just write a amazing essay and hope for the best. University of chicago is one of the elite schoools, and admission to any elite schools is a crapshoot, so dont be disappointed if you were to be rejected. on the bright side, university of chicago does have one of the highest admission rate among the elite schools. around 33 %

Answer 2

i think you have a good chance of getting in, because you made the most of the opportunities presented to you.  As long as you have a good recommendation and essay, if that's required, then i think you should be fine.

but also make sure you apply to other 'safeties' too because U Chicago is one of the better schools in the country.  its got an early action program which you can do, along with other schools like Boston college etc.

best of luck!

-muse

Answer 3

If you get a strong SAT score you'll certainly be in the running. Money will be your biggest issue if your family can not afford the $50,000 per year. Chicago is not a school that offers good financial aid to international students unfortunately, your grades and scores would have to put you at the very top of their applicant pool for any significant aid.