This is a generalization but the following is what we could figure out based on experience with our E kid:

- high or highest math at your student's school - Calc BC helpful and table stakes at most competitive schools, others may take AB but you need to show rigor elsewhere - bonus points if your student got to Multi or Linear and has all A's

- physics - again table stakes is physics 1/A but a lot of kids have 3/C

- APs - nice to have 5's on the AP tests for the above subjects - a couple top 10 E schools even told us a 4 was a "question mark" - especially in math or science

- ECs - are they doing things related to engineering, math, physics, robotics, engineering on the side? Being in an engineering society does not count - I mean a real activity, such as a legit performer in math olympiad - math is fundamental to engineering

And yes, I do think schools are trying to have a diverse program with an attempt at M/F parity, even if it is harder to achieve, so certain groups benefit more.

My engineer was accepted to a few T25 schools. Things that may have contributed were highest rigor of math and science, highest math on SAT possible, worked a job in tutoring, science comp and leadership awards in science.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Be an URM and be female.

That didn't work for my daughter's best friend. I think there are just so many engineering applicants these days that it's incredibly competitive.

My engineer has 70% females in his class.

Anonymous wrote:Be an URM and be female.

That didn't work for my daughter's best friend. I think there are just so many engineering applicants these days that it's incredibly competitive.

Anonymous wrote:Aside from being in the most advanced science and math classes, when applying to a direct admission engineering program, what would impress them? What are the standout activities and clubs? What are the competitions and awards they look for?

Rocketry is really good. Probably better than robotics these days. There are national competitions and so on.

Very high SAT or ACT scores. 5 on ap calc, chem, comp sci a, etc before senior HS year.

What KIND of engineering? CS is very different from CE, MechE, etc. Do a project like building a robot, setting up green space drainage systems in a community garden or whatever fits. Show a real interest and aptitude for the substance of the field.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Be an URM and be female.

This.

Yes because when I look at your average university engineering department, I see a bunch of women of color…

Eagle or Gold Award help

Anonymous wrote:Be an URM and be female.

This.

Most effective? Participate in math / cs / physics competitions. AMO/AMIE/USCSO qualified.

Do some non engineering things or things related to the type of engineering you’re interested in. Engineers who have nothing but cs and physics on the resume are not only boring- there’s many of them. They want some idea that you’re thoughtful

Some engineering schools want someone who is strong in STEM subjects, but also well-rounded with writing skills and strong also in humanities. This varies from one E School to another.

Be an URM and be female.

Aside from being in the most advanced science and math classes, when applying to a direct admission engineering program, what would impress them? What are the standout activities and clubs? What are the competitions and awards they look for?