What You Should Know Before Applying to Georgetown
Prove to the admissions committee that you can tackle challenges.
Show off your leadership skills and what makes you unique!
Have an interest outside of school? Go big or go home!
Is a Jesuit education important to you?
Read This Before Applying to Georgetown
Georgetown University is highly selective, with an overall acceptance rate of about 12%.
Although Georgetown has made it clear that academic rigor is one of the most critical components of a student’s application, it is worth noting that the university is also looking for much more than just a solid transcript. They’re looking for students with leadership characteristics who demonstrate a commitment to outside communities. In the bigger picture, Georgetown is looking for someone who will be a unique and diverse addition to their community.
Academic Expertise
While a transcript is not the only thing that Georgetown considers, it is important to acknowledge that an applicant’s secondary school record, including grade point average, standardized test scores, class rank, etc, is highly considered in the selection process.
Typically, students who are enrolled at the university have SAT scores ranging from 1410 to 1540 depending on the particular major program to which they apply. Georgetown students' average high school GPA is about 4.01 or higher. Around 84% of those enrolled have placed in the top 10% of their graduating high school class.
Remember, a high GPA or SAT score is not just about the numbers! Georgetown is looking for proof that the student will be able to handle a rigorous workload and demanding coursework.
Personal Qualities
Resiliency, motivation, and ambition are three key characteristics that Georgetown is looking for: “It is these qualities that make you an individual and someone who will uniquely add to – and benefit from – the Georgetown University community.” They are looking for leaders - students who are more likely to have an impact and bring about positive change even after graduation.
Take some time to reflect on what makes you stand out from all of the other applicants? Have you had to overcome an obstacle in the past that changed you for the better? Are you good at managing tough situations? How did you push through a challenge? Demonstrate these characteristics in your personal essay, your extracurriculars, and even in your interview!
Remember that Georgetown has a very distinct application process which entails a mandatory alumni interview for almost all of its applicants. According to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, the interview “further personalizes the process by allowing the applicant to tell his/her story in his/her own words.” This gives students an additional opportunity to express who they really are as a person outside of their transcript and resume.
Take some time to brainstorm how you want to share your story in written AND verbal form. Above all else, don’t forget that you’re showing your true self - be honest and confident!
Passion and Commitment
Keeping in mind that Georgetown is looking for students who are leaders, it would be most beneficial to demonstrate your outstanding passion for certain interests. Quality over quantity.
They are not looking for students with the highest number of extracurriculars or activities completed - they are looking for those particular students who exhibit the utmost commitment towards specific goals. For instance, you spent multiple semesters on the board of your student government and perhaps even became president. As described, this dedication can be noted through years of experience.
Whatever you are interested in, go for it and give it your all. Don’t beat yourself up about not having as many extracurriculars as you possibly can. Quality over quantity is part of the process. A few activities that you are passionate about make a world of difference.
Jesuit Education
It is also worth noting that Georgetown University is a Jesuit institution. Although they are not specifically looking for students who have a Catholic secondary school education, some may find this bit of information helpful when deciding what colleges to apply to. At a Jesuit institution, “emphasis is placed on learning through community service, interdisciplinary courses and the engagement of faith, theology, philosophy and ethics studies.”
Conclusion
The Georgetown University application process is very competitive, but it is not impossible to get in. Set high goals, work hard, and with an exceptional high school record (e.g. GPA, test scores, extracurriculars) and a captivating personal essay, you are set for success!
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