How to get into UVA from Langley?

[Anonymous]

Meant to say above we met with only one.

[Anonymous]

You guys are confusing the regular academic counselors (of which there are ten-ish) with the specific college counselor. She is still there and is still very good.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:1) Talk to the Langely College Counselor. Ask her (it used to be a she - I don't know if it is anymore) if your student is on track to get the "most rigorous" box checked off. This indicates to UVA that your student has indeed taken the most rigorous courses offered at Langley. That includes math because they want to see a well-rounded applicant even if they aren't going into math. Same with foreign language - take four years and AP courses. UVA requires two years of foreign language as an ungraduate student so foreign language skills are highly desired.
2) your student should be in the top 10% of the class. 95% of those accepted to UVA are in the top 10%. Ask the counselor about where your student stands. If they are vague and say "we don't rank", insist on it. (see no. 4 below)
3) Be aware that the counselor writes their own letter to Virginia colleges on behalf of your child.
4) The counselor will show you the Naviance chart for ACT/SAT (if applicable next year due to COVID) and GPA. This chart will show you the range of scores that got previous students from Langley in to UVA. Remember your student is competing against other students at Langley for slots. Your counselor also provides to UVA a class profile every year indicating what courses the top students are taking and what the top GPA is for your students' class. UVA can tell in a matter of seconds where you child will rank.
5) The counselor will guide your student to other Virginia universities if they think UVA is not a possibility. That happened to my DS. That's why you cannot look at Selectivity numbers for public schools like UVA and compare them to privates . . the students self-select to the Virginia universities that they apply. Remember the counselor is paid ultimately by the Commonwealth and they have their own professional reputation to be concerned about so they won't whole-heartedly recommend a student for UVA who is a better candidate for JMU.
6) Are you hooked? Talk it over with the counselor. Increasingly, legacy status and $$$ donations isn't helping.
7) are you otherwise hooked being URM, first generation or anything else?
8) If unhooked, then your child's GPA (weighted obviously) should be a 4.49 or higher. That's the 75th percentile for students who actually showed up at UVA last fall. a 4.35 was the median GPA and a 4.21 for bottom 25th percentile. Generally, speaking unhooked kids at the best NOVA high schools should be aiming for a 4.49 or higher. https://research.schev.edu//enrollment/B10_FreshmenProfile.asp.
9) for ACT, the breakdown is 34 for 75th percentile/33 for median and 30 for bottom 25th percentile.
10) for SAT, the breakdown is 1500/1430 and 1340, although I understand the numbers are higher for class of 2024. who knows what will happen now that schools are going test-optional?
10) Apply for the Jefferson Scholarship competition if your child is a super-star (ask counselor).
11) UVA received a record 41,000 applications last year. Due to COVID, most higher education experts think that next year parents will be trying to take advantage of in-state schools more than ever because savings have been hurt. Or they lost jobs, etc.
12) Apply ED if your student is willing to commit.
13) As to ECs, leadership positions are very important. National prizes, eagle scout, or other demonstrations of leadership speak volumes.
14) Go to College Confidential or Reddit and read the stats and ECs of students accepted or rejected for 2024. Above everything else, this will give you an idea of the student UVA is looking for.
15) A very smart way to get into UVA (which most parents at Langley sniff at) is to go to NOVA and meet all the requirements for a third-year transfer. About 600-700 students transfer in to UVA at the beginning of third year. It's economical and much easier than doing the conventional route.
16) Visit the other in-state schools. William & Mary is also a wonderful school (takes about the same stats to get in) but much smaller. Don't get your child's hope up for any of these schools because it truly has become a lottery.
17) When my kids applied, 7-10 applications was the norm. Now I'm seeing 15. Make good use of the ED application. Most of my children's friends got in ED or EA.

good luck. Post back with any questions.

Hi, does this mean to get into UVA it’s easier to go to a non top HS? So your kid can make it to 10% easier. Please be kind in your feedback. We are trying from last couple of months to buy a home in Langley/MCLean or Madison and this makes me rethink our decision.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:1) Talk to the Langely College Counselor. Ask her (it used to be a she - I don't know if it is anymore) if your student is on track to get the "most rigorous" box checked off. This indicates to UVA that your student has indeed taken the most rigorous courses offered at Langley. That includes math because they want to see a well-rounded applicant even if they aren't going into math. Same with foreign language - take four years and AP courses. UVA requires two years of foreign language as an ungraduate student so foreign language skills are highly desired.
2) your student should be in the top 10% of the class. 95% of those accepted to UVA are in the top 10%. Ask the counselor about where your student stands. If they are vague and say "we don't rank", insist on it. (see no. 4 below)
3) Be aware that the counselor writes their own letter to Virginia colleges on behalf of your child.
4) The counselor will show you the Naviance chart for ACT/SAT (if applicable next year due to COVID) and GPA. This chart will show you the range of scores that got previous students from Langley in to UVA. Remember your student is competing against other students at Langley for slots. Your counselor also provides to UVA a class profile every year indicating what courses the top students are taking and what the top GPA is for your students' class. UVA can tell in a matter of seconds where you child will rank.
5) The counselor will guide your student to other Virginia universities if they think UVA is not a possibility. That happened to my DS. That's why you cannot look at Selectivity numbers for public schools like UVA and compare them to privates . . the students self-select to the Virginia universities that they apply. Remember the counselor is paid ultimately by the Commonwealth and they have their own professional reputation to be concerned about so they won't whole-heartedly recommend a student for UVA who is a better candidate for JMU.
6) Are you hooked? Talk it over with the counselor. Increasingly, legacy status and $$$ donations isn't helping.
7) are you otherwise hooked being URM, first generation or anything else?
8) If unhooked, then your child's GPA (weighted obviously) should be a 4.49 or higher. That's the 75th percentile for students who actually showed up at UVA last fall. a 4.35 was the median GPA and a 4.21 for bottom 25th percentile. Generally, speaking unhooked kids at the best NOVA high schools should be aiming for a 4.49 or higher. https://research.schev.edu//enrollment/B10_FreshmenProfile.asp.
9) for ACT, the breakdown is 34 for 75th percentile/33 for median and 30 for bottom 25th percentile.
10) for SAT, the breakdown is 1500/1430 and 1340, although I understand the numbers are higher for class of 2024. who knows what will happen now that schools are going test-optional?
10) Apply for the Jefferson Scholarship competition if your child is a super-star (ask counselor).
11) UVA received a record 41,000 applications last year. Due to COVID, most higher education experts think that next year parents will be trying to take advantage of in-state schools more than ever because savings have been hurt. Or they lost jobs, etc.
12) Apply ED if your student is willing to commit.
13) As to ECs, leadership positions are very important. National prizes, eagle scout, or other demonstrations of leadership speak volumes.
14) Go to College Confidential or Reddit and read the stats and ECs of students accepted or rejected for 2024. Above everything else, this will give you an idea of the student UVA is looking for.
15) A very smart way to get into UVA (which most parents at Langley sniff at) is to go to NOVA and meet all the requirements for a third-year transfer. About 600-700 students transfer in to UVA at the beginning of third year. It's economical and much easier than doing the conventional route.
16) Visit the other in-state schools. William & Mary is also a wonderful school (takes about the same stats to get in) but much smaller. Don't get your child's hope up for any of these schools because it truly has become a lottery.
17) When my kids applied, 7-10 applications was the norm. Now I'm seeing 15. Make good use of the ED application. Most of my children's friends got in ED or EA.

good luck. Post back with any questions.

This is spot on. Nicely done.

Perhaps, but the short answer is prove to them that you can drink your weight in beer, and you're in!

[Anonymous]

Wow this thread is why I choose not to be a parent in NOVA

[Anonymous]

Why the surprise? The UVA Greek scene is unrivaled in the east coast, top notch.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:1) Talk to the Langely College Counselor. Ask her (it used to be a she - I don't know if it is anymore) if your student is on track to get the "most rigorous" box checked off. This indicates to UVA that your student has indeed taken the most rigorous courses offered at Langley. That includes math because they want to see a well-rounded applicant even if they aren't going into math. Same with foreign language - take four years and AP courses. UVA requires two years of foreign language as an ungraduate student so foreign language skills are highly desired.
2) your student should be in the top 10% of the class. 95% of those accepted to UVA are in the top 10%. Ask the counselor about where your student stands. If they are vague and say "we don't rank", insist on it. (see no. 4 below)
3) Be aware that the counselor writes their own letter to Virginia colleges on behalf of your child.
4) The counselor will show you the Naviance chart for ACT/SAT (if applicable next year due to COVID) and GPA. This chart will show you the range of scores that got previous students from Langley in to UVA. Remember your student is competing against other students at Langley for slots. Your counselor also provides to UVA a class profile every year indicating what courses the top students are taking and what the top GPA is for your students' class. UVA can tell in a matter of seconds where you child will rank.
5) The counselor will guide your student to other Virginia universities if they think UVA is not a possibility. That happened to my DS. That's why you cannot look at Selectivity numbers for public schools like UVA and compare them to privates . . the students self-select to the Virginia universities that they apply. Remember the counselor is paid ultimately by the Commonwealth and they have their own professional reputation to be concerned about so they won't whole-heartedly recommend a student for UVA who is a better candidate for JMU.
6) Are you hooked? Talk it over with the counselor. Increasingly, legacy status and $$$ donations isn't helping.
7) are you otherwise hooked being URM, first generation or anything else?
8) If unhooked, then your child's GPA (weighted obviously) should be a 4.49 or higher. That's the 75th percentile for students who actually showed up at UVA last fall. a 4.35 was the median GPA and a 4.21 for bottom 25th percentile. Generally, speaking unhooked kids at the best NOVA high schools should be aiming for a 4.49 or higher. https://research.schev.edu//enrollment/B10_FreshmenProfile.asp.
9) for ACT, the breakdown is 34 for 75th percentile/33 for median and 30 for bottom 25th percentile.
10) for SAT, the breakdown is 1500/1430 and 1340, although I understand the numbers are higher for class of 2024. who knows what will happen now that schools are going test-optional?
10) Apply for the Jefferson Scholarship competition if your child is a super-star (ask counselor).
11) UVA received a record 41,000 applications last year. Due to COVID, most higher education experts think that next year parents will be trying to take advantage of in-state schools more than ever because savings have been hurt. Or they lost jobs, etc.
12) Apply ED if your student is willing to commit.
13) As to ECs, leadership positions are very important. National prizes, eagle scout, or other demonstrations of leadership speak volumes.
14) Go to College Confidential or Reddit and read the stats and ECs of students accepted or rejected for 2024. Above everything else, this will give you an idea of the student UVA is looking for.
15) A very smart way to get into UVA (which most parents at Langley sniff at) is to go to NOVA and meet all the requirements for a third-year transfer. About 600-700 students transfer in to UVA at the beginning of third year. It's economical and much easier than doing the conventional route.
16) Visit the other in-state schools. William & Mary is also a wonderful school (takes about the same stats to get in) but much smaller. Don't get your child's hope up for any of these schools because it truly has become a lottery.
17) When my kids applied, 7-10 applications was the norm. Now I'm seeing 15. Make good use of the ED application. Most of my children's friends got in ED or EA.

good luck. Post back with any questions.

Re: number 2 - 90% are in top ten percent of class, not 95. From Dean Roberts’ lips (tonight, in fact).
Re: number 6 - in-state admissions rate is 39%, 46-47% for legacies. Legacy only means a parent or guardian who attended UVA, not grandparents, siblings, etc.
Re: testing - UVA still requiring ACT/SAT, although it sounded like they might consider revisiting test optional should the testing schedule not resume as planned in August. I think he said W&M had decided to go test optional for three years.
Re: number 12 - it sounded like the majority of the offers were made to ED and EA applicants. Sounded like around one third of ED applicants were accepted.
Re: number 15 - he said about 650 transfer students accepted each year, half of those from community college. Students must complete one or two full years before applying and must take courses that relate to offerings at UVA (example given was that if a student had taken two years of specialized classes that would not meet either foundational or major course requirements at UVA then they might be denied). They look for all As and Bs from transfer students.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:You guys are confusing the regular academic counselors (of which there are ten-ish) with the specific college counselor. She is still there and is still very good.

Ah. Thank you - that is what I remember

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:1) Talk to the Langely College Counselor. Ask her (it used to be a she - I don't know if it is anymore) if your student is on track to get the "most rigorous" box checked off. This indicates to UVA that your student has indeed taken the most rigorous courses offered at Langley. That includes math because they want to see a well-rounded applicant even if they aren't going into math. Same with foreign language - take four years and AP courses. UVA requires two years of foreign language as an ungraduate student so foreign language skills are highly desired.
2) your student should be in the top 10% of the class. 95% of those accepted to UVA are in the top 10%. Ask the counselor about where your student stands. If they are vague and say "we don't rank", insist on it. (see no. 4 below)
3) Be aware that the counselor writes their own letter to Virginia colleges on behalf of your child.
4) The counselor will show you the Naviance chart for ACT/SAT (if applicable next year due to COVID) and GPA. This chart will show you the range of scores that got previous students from Langley in to UVA. Remember your student is competing against other students at Langley for slots. Your counselor also provides to UVA a class profile every year indicating what courses the top students are taking and what the top GPA is for your students' class. UVA can tell in a matter of seconds where you child will rank.
5) The counselor will guide your student to other Virginia universities if they think UVA is not a possibility. That happened to my DS. That's why you cannot look at Selectivity numbers for public schools like UVA and compare them to privates . . the students self-select to the Virginia universities that they apply. Remember the counselor is paid ultimately by the Commonwealth and they have their own professional reputation to be concerned about so they won't whole-heartedly recommend a student for UVA who is a better candidate for JMU.
6) Are you hooked? Talk it over with the counselor. Increasingly, legacy status and $$$ donations isn't helping.
7) are you otherwise hooked being URM, first generation or anything else?
8) If unhooked, then your child's GPA (weighted obviously) should be a 4.49 or higher. That's the 75th percentile for students who actually showed up at UVA last fall. a 4.35 was the median GPA and a 4.21 for bottom 25th percentile. Generally, speaking unhooked kids at the best NOVA high schools should be aiming for a 4.49 or higher. https://research.schev.edu//enrollment/B10_FreshmenProfile.asp.
9) for ACT, the breakdown is 34 for 75th percentile/33 for median and 30 for bottom 25th percentile.
10) for SAT, the breakdown is 1500/1430 and 1340, although I understand the numbers are higher for class of 2024. who knows what will happen now that schools are going test-optional?
10) Apply for the Jefferson Scholarship competition if your child is a super-star (ask counselor).
11) UVA received a record 41,000 applications last year. Due to COVID, most higher education experts think that next year parents will be trying to take advantage of in-state schools more than ever because savings have been hurt. Or they lost jobs, etc.
12) Apply ED if your student is willing to commit.
13) As to ECs, leadership positions are very important. National prizes, eagle scout, or other demonstrations of leadership speak volumes.
14) Go to College Confidential or Reddit and read the stats and ECs of students accepted or rejected for 2024. Above everything else, this will give you an idea of the student UVA is looking for.
15) A very smart way to get into UVA (which most parents at Langley sniff at) is to go to NOVA and meet all the requirements for a third-year transfer. About 600-700 students transfer in to UVA at the beginning of third year. It's economical and much easier than doing the conventional route.
16) Visit the other in-state schools. William & Mary is also a wonderful school (takes about the same stats to get in) but much smaller. Don't get your child's hope up for any of these schools because it truly has become a lottery.
17) When my kids applied, 7-10 applications was the norm. Now I'm seeing 15. Make good use of the ED application. Most of my children's friends got in ED or EA.

good luck. Post back with any questions.

Hi, does this mean to get into UVA it’s easier to go to a non top HS? So your kid can make it to 10% easier. Please be kind in your feedback. We are trying from last couple of months to buy a home in Langley/MCLean or Madison and this makes me rethink our decision.

Yes, it’s definitely a bit easier from other Nova schools, including McLean and Madison.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Wow this thread is why I choose not to be a parent in NOVA

Ok. Glad you’re happy elsewhere.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:1) Talk to the Langely College Counselor. Ask her (it used to be a she - I don't know if it is anymore) if your student is on track to get the "most rigorous" box checked off. This indicates to UVA that your student has indeed taken the most rigorous courses offered at Langley. That includes math because they want to see a well-rounded applicant even if they aren't going into math. Same with foreign language - take four years and AP courses. UVA requires two years of foreign language as an ungraduate student so foreign language skills are highly desired.
2) your student should be in the top 10% of the class. 95% of those accepted to UVA are in the top 10%. Ask the counselor about where your student stands. If they are vague and say "we don't rank", insist on it. (see no. 4 below)
3) Be aware that the counselor writes their own letter to Virginia colleges on behalf of your child.
4) The counselor will show you the Naviance chart for ACT/SAT (if applicable next year due to COVID) and GPA. This chart will show you the range of scores that got previous students from Langley in to UVA. Remember your student is competing against other students at Langley for slots. Your counselor also provides to UVA a class profile every year indicating what courses the top students are taking and what the top GPA is for your students' class. UVA can tell in a matter of seconds where you child will rank.
5) The counselor will guide your student to other Virginia universities if they think UVA is not a possibility. That happened to my DS. That's why you cannot look at Selectivity numbers for public schools like UVA and compare them to privates . . the students self-select to the Virginia universities that they apply. Remember the counselor is paid ultimately by the Commonwealth and they have their own professional reputation to be concerned about so they won't whole-heartedly recommend a student for UVA who is a better candidate for JMU.
6) Are you hooked? Talk it over with the counselor. Increasingly, legacy status and $$$ donations isn't helping.
7) are you otherwise hooked being URM, first generation or anything else?
8) If unhooked, then your child's GPA (weighted obviously) should be a 4.49 or higher. That's the 75th percentile for students who actually showed up at UVA last fall. a 4.35 was the median GPA and a 4.21 for bottom 25th percentile. Generally, speaking unhooked kids at the best NOVA high schools should be aiming for a 4.49 or higher. https://research.schev.edu//enrollment/B10_FreshmenProfile.asp.
9) for ACT, the breakdown is 34 for 75th percentile/33 for median and 30 for bottom 25th percentile.
10) for SAT, the breakdown is 1500/1430 and 1340, although I understand the numbers are higher for class of 2024. who knows what will happen now that schools are going test-optional?
10) Apply for the Jefferson Scholarship competition if your child is a super-star (ask counselor).
11) UVA received a record 41,000 applications last year. Due to COVID, most higher education experts think that next year parents will be trying to take advantage of in-state schools more than ever because savings have been hurt. Or they lost jobs, etc.
12) Apply ED if your student is willing to commit.
13) As to ECs, leadership positions are very important. National prizes, eagle scout, or other demonstrations of leadership speak volumes.
14) Go to College Confidential or Reddit and read the stats and ECs of students accepted or rejected for 2024. Above everything else, this will give you an idea of the student UVA is looking for.
15) A very smart way to get into UVA (which most parents at Langley sniff at) is to go to NOVA and meet all the requirements for a third-year transfer. About 600-700 students transfer in to UVA at the beginning of third year. It's economical and much easier than doing the conventional route.
16) Visit the other in-state schools. William & Mary is also a wonderful school (takes about the same stats to get in) but much smaller. Don't get your child's hope up for any of these schools because it truly has become a lottery.
17) When my kids applied, 7-10 applications was the norm. Now I'm seeing 15. Make good use of the ED application. Most of my children's friends got in ED or EA.

good luck. Post back with any questions.

This is spot on. Nicely done.

Perhaps, but the short answer is prove to them that you can drink your weight in beer, and you're in!

Not the case, but gee you’re funny.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:1) Talk to the Langely College Counselor. Ask her (it used to be a she - I don't know if it is anymore) if your student is on track to get the "most rigorous" box checked off. This indicates to UVA that your student has indeed taken the most rigorous courses offered at Langley. That includes math because they want to see a well-rounded applicant even if they aren't going into math. Same with foreign language - take four years and AP courses. UVA requires two years of foreign language as an ungraduate student so foreign language skills are highly desired.
2) your student should be in the top 10% of the class. 95% of those accepted to UVA are in the top 10%. Ask the counselor about where your student stands. If they are vague and say "we don't rank", insist on it. (see no. 4 below)
3) Be aware that the counselor writes their own letter to Virginia colleges on behalf of your child.
4) The counselor will show you the Naviance chart for ACT/SAT (if applicable next year due to COVID) and GPA. This chart will show you the range of scores that got previous students from Langley in to UVA. Remember your student is competing against other students at Langley for slots. Your counselor also provides to UVA a class profile every year indicating what courses the top students are taking and what the top GPA is for your students' class. UVA can tell in a matter of seconds where you child will rank.
5) The counselor will guide your student to other Virginia universities if they think UVA is not a possibility. That happened to my DS. That's why you cannot look at Selectivity numbers for public schools like UVA and compare them to privates . . the students self-select to the Virginia universities that they apply. Remember the counselor is paid ultimately by the Commonwealth and they have their own professional reputation to be concerned about so they won't whole-heartedly recommend a student for UVA who is a better candidate for JMU.
6) Are you hooked? Talk it over with the counselor. Increasingly, legacy status and $$$ donations isn't helping.
7) are you otherwise hooked being URM, first generation or anything else?
8) If unhooked, then your child's GPA (weighted obviously) should be a 4.49 or higher. That's the 75th percentile for students who actually showed up at UVA last fall. a 4.35 was the median GPA and a 4.21 for bottom 25th percentile. Generally, speaking unhooked kids at the best NOVA high schools should be aiming for a 4.49 or higher. https://research.schev.edu//enrollment/B10_FreshmenProfile.asp.
9) for ACT, the breakdown is 34 for 75th percentile/33 for median and 30 for bottom 25th percentile.
10) for SAT, the breakdown is 1500/1430 and 1340, although I understand the numbers are higher for class of 2024. who knows what will happen now that schools are going test-optional?
10) Apply for the Jefferson Scholarship competition if your child is a super-star (ask counselor).
11) UVA received a record 41,000 applications last year. Due to COVID, most higher education experts think that next year parents will be trying to take advantage of in-state schools more than ever because savings have been hurt. Or they lost jobs, etc.
12) Apply ED if your student is willing to commit.
13) As to ECs, leadership positions are very important. National prizes, eagle scout, or other demonstrations of leadership speak volumes.
14) Go to College Confidential or Reddit and read the stats and ECs of students accepted or rejected for 2024. Above everything else, this will give you an idea of the student UVA is looking for.
15) A very smart way to get into UVA (which most parents at Langley sniff at) is to go to NOVA and meet all the requirements for a third-year transfer. About 600-700 students transfer in to UVA at the beginning of third year. It's economical and much easier than doing the conventional route.
16) Visit the other in-state schools. William & Mary is also a wonderful school (takes about the same stats to get in) but much smaller. Don't get your child's hope up for any of these schools because it truly has become a lottery.
17) When my kids applied, 7-10 applications was the norm. Now I'm seeing 15. Make good use of the ED application. Most of my children's friends got in ED or EA.

good luck. Post back with any questions.

Re: number 2 - 90% are in top ten percent of class, not 95. From Dean Roberts’ lips (tonight, in fact).
Re: number 6 - in-state admissions rate is 39%, 46-47% for legacies. Legacy only means a parent or guardian who attended UVA, not grandparents, siblings, etc.
Re: testing - UVA still requiring ACT/SAT, although it sounded like they might consider revisiting test optional should the testing schedule not resume as planned in August. I think he said W&M had decided to go test optional for three years.
Re: number 12 - it sounded like the majority of the offers were made to ED and EA applicants. Sounded like around one third of ED applicants were accepted.
Re: number 15 - he said about 650 transfer students accepted each year, half of those from community college. Students must complete one or two full years before applying and must take courses that relate to offerings at UVA (example given was that if a student had taken two years of specialized classes that would not meet either foundational or major course requirements at UVA then they might be denied). They look for all As and Bs from transfer students.

I only have time to answer no. 1. For the last five years, starting with Teresa Sullivan at orientation for first-years, it has been announced that 94 percent plus if the incoming class were in the top 10% of their high school class. I was there and heard it and in subsequent years. Dean Roberts’ job is marketing-he and Dean J’s jobs are to get as many students to apply as possible in order to reject them thereby driving up scores and selectivity. If you read their posts very carefully you can often see how you can drive a truck through their logic. They also will tell you that they are holistic. They will also tell you not to worry about grades - that they have B students in campus ( but not the fact they are Questbridge, low-income, blue ridge scholars, first-generation, URM). They will also cite that legacy figure but I know triple legacy families who have given significant monies and were told by admissions that all was well only to have their high stats kids not get in. They went to complain to Ryan who agreed with them “that it wasn’t right”), yet Ryan wants to further increase the first-generation students in campus. Never forget tgat admissions people work for the university and their most important task is to increase the number of applications for the school even if you child doesn’t have the stats. Personally I don’t think this is right. They shoukd t be taking application fees for students who don’t have a shit (especially a public school) but it’s the game all institutions play now (and likely to only increase post-COVID. But Dean J dies gave nice Golden Retrievers.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:1) Talk to the Langely College Counselor. Ask her (it used to be a she - I don't know if it is anymore) if your student is on track to get the "most rigorous" box checked off. This indicates to UVA that your student has indeed taken the most rigorous courses offered at Langley. That includes math because they want to see a well-rounded applicant even if they aren't going into math. Same with foreign language - take four years and AP courses. UVA requires two years of foreign language as an ungraduate student so foreign language skills are highly desired.
2) your student should be in the top 10% of the class. 95% of those accepted to UVA are in the top 10%. Ask the counselor about where your student stands. If they are vague and say "we don't rank", insist on it. (see no. 4 below)
3) Be aware that the counselor writes their own letter to Virginia colleges on behalf of your child.
4) The counselor will show you the Naviance chart for ACT/SAT (if applicable next year due to COVID) and GPA. This chart will show you the range of scores that got previous students from Langley in to UVA. Remember your student is competing against other students at Langley for slots. Your counselor also provides to UVA a class profile every year indicating what courses the top students are taking and what the top GPA is for your students' class. UVA can tell in a matter of seconds where you child will rank.
5) The counselor will guide your student to other Virginia universities if they think UVA is not a possibility. That happened to my DS. That's why you cannot look at Selectivity numbers for public schools like UVA and compare them to privates . . the students self-select to the Virginia universities that they apply. Remember the counselor is paid ultimately by the Commonwealth and they have their own professional reputation to be concerned about so they won't whole-heartedly recommend a student for UVA who is a better candidate for JMU.
6) Are you hooked? Talk it over with the counselor. Increasingly, legacy status and $$$ donations isn't helping.
7) are you otherwise hooked being URM, first generation or anything else?
8) If unhooked, then your child's GPA (weighted obviously) should be a 4.49 or higher. That's the 75th percentile for students who actually showed up at UVA last fall. a 4.35 was the median GPA and a 4.21 for bottom 25th percentile. Generally, speaking unhooked kids at the best NOVA high schools should be aiming for a 4.49 or higher. https://research.schev.edu//enrollment/B10_FreshmenProfile.asp.
9) for ACT, the breakdown is 34 for 75th percentile/33 for median and 30 for bottom 25th percentile.
10) for SAT, the breakdown is 1500/1430 and 1340, although I understand the numbers are higher for class of 2024. who knows what will happen now that schools are going test-optional?
10) Apply for the Jefferson Scholarship competition if your child is a super-star (ask counselor).
11) UVA received a record 41,000 applications last year. Due to COVID, most higher education experts think that next year parents will be trying to take advantage of in-state schools more than ever because savings have been hurt. Or they lost jobs, etc.
12) Apply ED if your student is willing to commit.
13) As to ECs, leadership positions are very important. National prizes, eagle scout, or other demonstrations of leadership speak volumes.
14) Go to College Confidential or Reddit and read the stats and ECs of students accepted or rejected for 2024. Above everything else, this will give you an idea of the student UVA is looking for.
15) A very smart way to get into UVA (which most parents at Langley sniff at) is to go to NOVA and meet all the requirements for a third-year transfer. About 600-700 students transfer in to UVA at the beginning of third year. It's economical and much easier than doing the conventional route.
16) Visit the other in-state schools. William & Mary is also a wonderful school (takes about the same stats to get in) but much smaller. Don't get your child's hope up for any of these schools because it truly has become a lottery.
17) When my kids applied, 7-10 applications was the norm. Now I'm seeing 15. Make good use of the ED application. Most of my children's friends got in ED or EA.

good luck. Post back with any questions.

Hi, does this mean to get into UVA it’s easier to go to a non top HS? So your kid can make it to 10% easier. Please be kind in your feedback. We are trying from last couple of months to buy a home in Langley/MCLean or Madison and this makes me rethink our decision.

Are you saying you're rethinking your decision to attach your house buying decision at the hip with the odds of getting into UVA ?!

[Anonymous]

Meant to tap out in tiny phone “they shouldn’t take application fees from those who don’t have the stats to get in” above

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:1) Talk to the Langely College Counselor. Ask her (it used to be a she - I don't know if it is anymore) if your student is on track to get the "most rigorous" box checked off. This indicates to UVA that your student has indeed taken the most rigorous courses offered at Langley. That includes math because they want to see a well-rounded applicant even if they aren't going into math. Same with foreign language - take four years and AP courses. UVA requires two years of foreign language as an ungraduate student so foreign language skills are highly desired.
2) your student should be in the top 10% of the class. 95% of those accepted to UVA are in the top 10%. Ask the counselor about where your student stands. If they are vague and say "we don't rank", insist on it. (see no. 4 below)
3) Be aware that the counselor writes their own letter to Virginia colleges on behalf of your child.
4) The counselor will show you the Naviance chart for ACT/SAT (if applicable next year due to COVID) and GPA. This chart will show you the range of scores that got previous students from Langley in to UVA. Remember your student is competing against other students at Langley for slots. Your counselor also provides to UVA a class profile every year indicating what courses the top students are taking and what the top GPA is for your students' class. UVA can tell in a matter of seconds where you child will rank.
5) The counselor will guide your student to other Virginia universities if they think UVA is not a possibility. That happened to my DS. That's why you cannot look at Selectivity numbers for public schools like UVA and compare them to privates . . the students self-select to the Virginia universities that they apply. Remember the counselor is paid ultimately by the Commonwealth and they have their own professional reputation to be concerned about so they won't whole-heartedly recommend a student for UVA who is a better candidate for JMU.
6) Are you hooked? Talk it over with the counselor. Increasingly, legacy status and $$$ donations isn't helping.
7) are you otherwise hooked being URM, first generation or anything else?
8) If unhooked, then your child's GPA (weighted obviously) should be a 4.49 or higher. That's the 75th percentile for students who actually showed up at UVA last fall. a 4.35 was the median GPA and a 4.21 for bottom 25th percentile. Generally, speaking unhooked kids at the best NOVA high schools should be aiming for a 4.49 or higher. https://research.schev.edu//enrollment/B10_FreshmenProfile.asp.
9) for ACT, the breakdown is 34 for 75th percentile/33 for median and 30 for bottom 25th percentile.
10) for SAT, the breakdown is 1500/1430 and 1340, although I understand the numbers are higher for class of 2024. who knows what will happen now that schools are going test-optional?
10) Apply for the Jefferson Scholarship competition if your child is a super-star (ask counselor).
11) UVA received a record 41,000 applications last year. Due to COVID, most higher education experts think that next year parents will be trying to take advantage of in-state schools more than ever because savings have been hurt. Or they lost jobs, etc.
12) Apply ED if your student is willing to commit.
13) As to ECs, leadership positions are very important. National prizes, eagle scout, or other demonstrations of leadership speak volumes.
14) Go to College Confidential or Reddit and read the stats and ECs of students accepted or rejected for 2024. Above everything else, this will give you an idea of the student UVA is looking for.
15) A very smart way to get into UVA (which most parents at Langley sniff at) is to go to NOVA and meet all the requirements for a third-year transfer. About 600-700 students transfer in to UVA at the beginning of third year. It's economical and much easier than doing the conventional route.
16) Visit the other in-state schools. William & Mary is also a wonderful school (takes about the same stats to get in) but much smaller. Don't get your child's hope up for any of these schools because it truly has become a lottery.
17) When my kids applied, 7-10 applications was the norm. Now I'm seeing 15. Make good use of the ED application. Most of my children's friends got in ED or EA.

good luck. Post back with any questions.

Hi, does this mean to get into UVA it’s easier to go to a non top HS? So your kid can make it to 10% easier. Please be kind in your feedback. We are trying from last couple of months to buy a home in Langley/MCLean or Madison and this makes me rethink our decision.

Are you saying you're rethinking your decision to attach your house buying decision at the hip with the odds of getting into UVA ?!

It’s all about getting good public education. We will have to pay so much more to get a run down home for 1.1 M in Langley district. If our kids can’t get into good in-state universities because they couldn’t be in top 10%. Then yes it may make us sad. Rather if we go to Loudon, for example, Briar Woods HS our kids will still get good public education, we can get cheaper renovated home and our kids may have a higher chance of getting into good in-state Uni. Please don’t quote me on this my kids are in MS still and since buying a house is not an easy decision we would like to check all the boxes.