Reply to Which colleges are the B students going to from the top independent schools?

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]So, I have an 3.5 student at a Big 3 with significant sports/activities and generally rigorous classes.  Likely merit semifinalist and SAT 2300.  Are the Ivies out of range?  Even with legacy status?   I want to be practical about the admissions process.[/quote]

It is hard to say.  Lots of variables.  As an initial matter, I'm guessing a 3.5 student has a lot of B+ grades, some A minus grades, some B grades?

First, is the student going to be a recruited athlete?  If so, those numbers are strong (especially the test scores) and would put your child in the mix.  However, if your child is active in sports as a high school activity and doesn't project as a recruited athlete, the sports don't really help.  Most private school kids do a lot of sports and extracurriculars.

Second, legacy status can help, but it doesn't make someone a lock -- I think I recall reading that at a place like Princeton 35 - 40% legacies are admitted.  That still means 2/3 are not. Also depends on where the legacy status is (HYP or a slightly less selective Ivy) and if it's undergrad legacy of a parent (the best) or something attenuated (grandparent or grad school).

Third, it will matter how strong the recommendations are.  Will they say between the lines that the 2300 student with 3.5 GPA coasts by on talent and could be doing better, or will they rave about the kid?

Basically, you should ask your school's counselor.  You can see what GPA ranges were accepted and you can ask them whether legacy status matters.  It obviously can't hurt to apply (and they won't stop you, despite the urban myths on this board), but one thing to consider is to use the relatively valuable chip of Early Action/Early Decision.  If it's a bit of a reach but could happen, you might do it; if it's a super long shot, then you may have to realize that is an opportunity cost there.  Ultimately if you don't apply you'll never know, but make sure the rest of the college list has a range of schools.

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