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Before you envision yourself getting settled in at Georgia Tech, you must get over the hurdle of writing the Georgia Tech essays. The Georgia Tech supplement requires you to write a short essay specifically for Georgia Tech. But what is the essay prompt? And what should you include in your Georgia Tech essay?

Keep reading to learn exactly what the Georgia Tech essay is, what kinds of topics you can write about (and what kinds of topics to avoid), and how to ensure you're submitting a quality essay.

Feature Image: Wally Gobetz /Flickr

What Are the Georgia Tech Supplement Essay Prompts?

The Georgia Tech application includes a total of two essays . For one of these, you'll choose one of the seven Common App prompts to respond to, and the other is specific to Georgia Tech. Here's the Georgia Tech prompt:

Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech?

How to Write the "Why Georgia Tech?" Essay

This prompt is a version of the "why this college?" prompt . Specifically, this prompt is a "why us?" prompt: It's asking you to elaborate on why this college and the major you've chosen are best suited to you and your aspirations. In other words, what about Georgia Tech and the field of study you want to pursue there will help you achieve your future goals?

To answer this question, you'll need to do some research on Georgia Tech and the academic program you're applying to . The easiest way to do this is to go to the Georgia Tech website to get an overview of what's offered by your program, including the kinds of classes, study abroad options, professors, and internship opportunities.

If possible, I suggest visiting the campus to sit in on classes and meet professors so you can get a clearer feel for the academic program as well as the environment at Georgia Tech as a whole.

In your essay, try to pick a specific characteristic to focus on —don't just say you want to attend Georgia Tech because it's prestigious or well-known. Lots of colleges are!

Next, you'll need to know how your education at Georgia Tech will help you after college . For example, you could write about how you think Georgia Tech's cooperative education program will help you gain relevant professional experience and make connections with like-minded peers.

Regardless of what aspects of Georgia Tech and your major you want to write about, make sure to clearly connect the essay back to you and your own interests and goals .

Here are some possible topics you could use for your "Why Georgia Tech?" essay:

• An anecdote relating some sort of positive personal experience you had at Georgia Tech (such as while on a campus tour)
• A positive interaction you had with someone affiliated with Georgia Tech, such as a current student or professor involved with the major you're applying for
• Your excitement about getting to work with a particular faculty member  and how this opportunity will help you further your career goals
• Your enthusiasm for getting to study in a program, major, or minor that's not usually offered at many schools or that has a unique, interesting angle at Georgia Tech
• A special facility or piece of equipment you're looking forward to being able to work in or with that isn't offered on other campuses or is very rare

Georgia Tech Essay Examples + Analysis

We've written two Georgia Tech essay examples to help give you an idea as to what and how you could write your Why Georgia Tech essay. Additionally, we go over what makes them good essays for a Georgia Tech application.

Georgia Tech Essay Example 1

"Honestly, I can't imagine what my life would be like if I hadn't gone to Georgia Tech."

Katrina was a few years older than me and the sister of my best friend, Troy, who'd given me her email address so I could ask any questions I had about her time at Georgia Tech. This was the last line of her response—and by far the most memorable.

Like Katrina, I can't imagine myself not attending Georgia Tech. As an aspiring environmental engineer, I see Georgia Tech as a gateway to not just learning but also professional success. The flexibility of the major would allow me to focus specifically on my passion for reducing the negative effects of climate change and securing access to clean water. As a senior, I plan to take several hydraulics-focused electives.

In addition, through the InVenture Prize, which I hope to participate in at least twice, I'll be able to utilize the knowledge I've gained through my classes, projects, and fieldwork by translating it into a concrete vision—specifically, an invention that will increase the availability of fresh, healthy water for disadvantaged communities.

After graduation, and as a proud Georgia Tech alumnus (ideally with an InVenture Prize), I plan to implement the skills I've gained through my environmental engineering major in the nonprofit sector.

I haven't met Katrina yet, but I feel as though I know her—perhaps it's that shared sense of joy at having discovered the perfect school for the paths we've chosen.

Here's why this Georgia Tech essay works:

• It's got a creative hook that draws you in. This Georgia Tech essay opens with a quotation that immediately makes it feel as though you're reading a compelling story. It then goes on to connect this hook directly to the narrator who "can't imagine … not attending Georgia Tech," ensuring the focus remains on the applicant and not Katrina.
• It mentions specific features of Georgia Tech. The applicant doesn't just write about how prestigious Georgia Tech is but specifically mentions opportunities she's interested in taking advantage of, such as hydraulics courses and the famous InVenture Prize competition.

The mark of a good college essay is an acceptance letter!

Georgia Tech Essay Example 2

Atlanta has been my home all my life, and I've always known that I want to be one of the people who help make it such a wonderful place to live. My dream is to create my own business that makes it easier for other start-up businesses to get up and running. Georgia Tech is my dream school because I know it will give me the absolute best chance of achieving my goals.

The course catalog for Georgia Tech's Scheller College of Business makes it clear that all business students receive a top-notch and comprehensive business education no matter what area they choose to focus on. However, what really interests me is Scheller's emphasis on entrepreneurship. I'm so excited to take advantage of the opportunities the school offers, like LBAT and study abroad programs that focus on starting a new business, the certificate in entrepreneurship, and the Enterprise Innovation Institute where I hope to collaborate with professors, business leaders, and peers to learn how to create and grow and successful business of my own.

Growing up in Atlanta, learned early that it has many resources for people hoping to go into business, and I know Georgia Tech will help me take advantage of them. Under the school's internship program, I hope to work for a start-up company, learning about what makes some new companies thrive while others fail, and getting on-the-ground experience learning what new companies need to do well and avoid common pitfalls. I'll also use Georgia Tech's extensive connections with local business leaders to continue to expand my business acumen outside the classroom.

I have so many ideas for what I want to do with my career, and I can't wait to attend Georgia Tech to learn the skills I need to make these dreams possible.

• It goes in-depth on what Georgia Tech offers. Like the first essay, this one also gets specific on exactly which parts of the school the writer plans to take advantage of the most. From mentioning the course catalog, specific business programs, and the school's connections with the community, it's clear the writer did her research and knows which of Georgia Tech's resources will be of most value to her.
• It has a clear vision of a career path. You don't need to know exactly what you want to do after you graduate college, but having a general idea can really help you show the admissions committee how you're going to take advantage of what Georgia Tech offers. In this case, it's the entrepreneurship and business opportunities at the school, which will help the writer start her own business after graduation.

How to Write a Great Georgia Tech Essay: Three Essential Tips

Now that you know the specifics of the Why Georgia Tech essay prompt, here are three key tips to use while writing your essay.

#1: Be Specific and Concise

The Georgia Tech supplemental essay only gives you room for up to 300 words. That's a pretty short essay! Since you're so limited in terms of length, you'll need to make sure you're using the space you have wisely. Don't write super flowery, verbose descriptions or rely on overly vague examples.

Instead, be as specific as you can be so that you're emphasizing only the most important parts of the story you want to tell. Specificity will make your essay more concise and easier to follow.

#2: Show, Don't Tell

You've probably heard this refrain a million times, but it's especially important for college essays: show your experiences, emotions, and perspectives instead of simply telling them to your readers . Doing this will make your Georgia Tech essays sound vibrant and alive rather than dull and boring.

One of the very best ways to catapult your descriptions to a whole new level and to lend a stronger voice to your writing is to use a variety of literary devices , including flashbacks, anecdotes, imagery, and euphemisms.

#3: Polish and Proofread

Before you submit your Georgia Tech essays, make sure to take some time to read them over, edit them, get feedback, and proofread them.

The best way to do this is to start by writing a rough draft. Once finished, put your essay away for a little while—from a couple of days to a week or so depending on the amount of time you have left before college applications are due —and then take it out again.

As you read your essay, mark any areas that are unclear, awkwardly worded, or irrelevant . You should also proofread your essay for any glaring typos and errors in punctuation, spelling, and grammar.

Once you've repeated this process a few times, it's time to get a new set of eyes to look it over for you. Ask someone you trust, such as a teacher, parent, or counselor, to read your essay and offer comments and corrections on it.

Doing all of this will ensure that your essay is completely polished by the time you turn it in to Georgia Tech!

What's Next?

If you're reading this, you're likely not only applying to Georgia Tech. Get more tips with our expert guides to the Stanford essays , the Northwestern essay , and the Harvard essay .

Applying through the Common App? Check out this comprehensive list of schools that accept the Common App , and learn more about how to write the Common App essay .

To learn more about Georgia Tech and how to get in, take a look at its admission requirements page .

Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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Undergraduate Admission

• Application Review Process
• Academic Preparation
• Course Requirements by Major
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Personal Essays

• Contribution to Community
• Major Selection
• Institutional Fit

Two essays of 300 words each (max) are required as part of the transfer application. The purpose of the essays is to assess your writing ability and, more importantly, to learn more about you as an individual. This portion of the application helps us get to know you, assess mutual fit and better understand what you could contribute to Georgia Tech.

Essay Questions

Required Essays

Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech?

Georgia Tech's Strategic Plan outlines  nine distinct Institute values . Select one and discuss how your past experiences have prepared you to contribute to our community.

What Are We Looking for in Your Essays?

Essays are evaluated for both content and writing/grammatical skills. So, before submitting your application, you should take the time to edit and review your essay thoroughly. The traits of a strong essay include ones that:

Demonstrate authenticity.

Brings you to life on paper.

Are excellent in topic, style, and grammar.

Demonstrate thoughtfulness.

Demonstrate a student has thought about why Georgia Tech, specifically, is a fit for them and how their goals align with  Georgia Tech’s Values . The Georgia Institute of Technology is a public research university established by the state of Georgia in Atlanta in 1885 and committed to developing leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition.

Our Advice for this Portion of the Application

Get started early. Don’t wait until the last minute to complete your essays!

Write and edit your essay in a document editor. Once you have the final draft, you can cut and paste it into your online application.

Don’t overthink it. It may not be easy to write about yourself, but just write what you feel most comfortable with.

Don’t write what you think we want to read. Write what you want to say!

In the same way you would not copy directly from any other source you may incorporate into the writing process; you should not copy and paste directly out of any AI platform or submit work that you did not originally create. Instead, approach and consider any interaction with an AI tool as a learning experience that may help you generate ideas, provide alternative phrasing options, and organize your thoughts. Ultimately, we want to read and hear your unique and valuable writing style.

Per Georgia state law and Georgia Tech policy , all admission staff are mandatory reporters who are required by law to report suspected abuse or neglect of minors to appropriate authorities. Any statements in written materials, including anywhere in a student’s application or supporting materials, that give admission staff reasonable cause to believe abuse or neglect of someone under the age of 18 may have occurred must be reported to the Georgia Tech Police Department. Learn more about reporting requirements .

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How to Write the Georgia Tech Application Essays 2020-2021

Padya Paramita

July 13, 2020

The Georgia Institute of Technology recently made headlines with the announcement that it will no longer accept the Common Application personal statement . They will still use the Common Application system, but will “ will no longer utilize the long essay portion of the Common Application.” Instead, the school has introduced its own essay prompts that students will answer alongside the rest of the Common App sections . While keeping their “why Georgia Tech” essay from last year as it was, the Georgia Tech application essays 2020-2021 have added two new prompts.

Writing essays on top of the “why school” prompt might sound intimidating at first. However, since chances are that you’re also writing a personal statement for other schools on the Common App, you likely already have content that can be repurposed for the Georgia Tech application essays 2020-2021 . The new prompts are somewhat similar to the personal statement questions and ask students to reflect on their character, background, and interests. To guide you through each of the questions, I’ve gone over them in greater detail and added tips on how to make your essay specific to the university, and unique to your application profile.

Prompts for the Georgia Tech Application Essays 2020-2021

Both prompts below are required for all applicants. The school suggests that your answers stay within 50-300 words. Since you don’t have a lot of space, it’s important that you use your words strategically.

Essay Prompt 1

Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech?

This is an accelerated version of the “why this school” essay, with a more clear focus on your choice of major. Your response shouldn’t revolve around broad categories that make Georgia Tech wonderful - everyone knows it’s a strong STEM college. This essay is not asking you to highlight extracurricular, cultural, or other resources at Georgia Tech; this essay is explicitly asking you to speak in depth about Georgia tech’s academic resources —major, curriculum, classes, professors, and more. When you get start, think about how a Georgia Tech education pertains to your goals, specifically. This means that you have to identify your goals in the first place. Then, whether you are applying for Industrial Design or Applied Languages and Intercultural Studies, demonstrate how Georgia Tech will help you accomplish your specific goals. The key is to connect experiences and aspirations with academic reasons for why  you’ve chosen the school. 

Research is the key to any “why this school” essay. Before you write this response, it’s important to sit down and look through Georgia Tech’s majors and course offerings in great detailOnce you’ve decided which major appeals to you, it’s time to think about your own experiences. How did your love for the field begin? How have you honed your skills in the discipline since then? If you’ve taken any challenging courses or started relevant clubs, how is Georgia Tech the perfect place for you to continue your exploration? No matter which major you’ve chosen, it’s important to show admissions officers why your interest makes sense for you and that your dedication to the field is real. 

Essay Prompt 2  

All applicants must choose one of the two questions below:

Option 1: Georgia Tech is committed to creating solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Tell us how you have improved or hope to improve the human condition in your community.

Competitive schools are looking for students who will graduate from their schools and later go on to change the world for the better. With a STEM-oriented school like Georgia Tech, it is looking for students who will use their skills and ambitions to bring innovative solutions to issues in today’s world. When approaching this essay, you need to identify a community, think of a problem it has faced, and show concrete evidence that you’ve worked on solving this problem. 

Since the prompt hasn’t specified which kind of community, think about a place where you’ve actually made the biggest impact. Think about how to differentiate yourself from other applicants. While you can definitely improve the human condition through service trips abroad, this experience isn’t necessarily unique.. You could write about the smaller circles such as your family, friend group, or neighborhood. You may have helped the community as a whole or you could have helped one or two individuals who belong to it. 

To think about the kinds of contributions to elaborate on, ask yourself the following questions:

• How have you collaborated - or hope to do so - with others in your community?
• What is different in your community as a result of your involvement?
• Have you taken any risks to help others? How have they paid off?
• Have you spearheaded any initiatives towards change?
• Are there any service examples that portray your curiosity and creativity?
• Why do you care about this community? How have you shown it? 

If you choose a larger community - like your whole school or city - make sure your essay still focuses on your own contribution and role. A response to such a prompt needs to follow the classic “show, not tell” advice. Admissions officers won’t be satisfied with just “I helped my family.” You need to dig deeper and convince them through the Georgia Tech application essays 2020-2021 that you are the kind of hardworking and passionate individual who can thrive at Georgia Tech.

Option 2: If you feel that your personal or community background can provide additional insight to your application that we have not already seen elsewhere, please take this opportunity to share that information with us.

This question is very similar to a prompt from the Common App essays and is a very open-ended prompt. You can pretty much go any direction with your essay since it’s asking about your personal background or a community that has shaped you. You could also write about how you hold certain beliefs that have defined the course of your life. You can choose to elaborate on a cultural tradition that you look forward to and how the ways you’ve celebrated it changed with time. You can focus your essay on your career interest - for example, is there a compelling story that changed everything for you and developed your desire to pursue a career in engineering after college? 

The key here is “we have not already seen elsewhere. ” Remember that Georgia Tech will receive the rest of your Common Application. So don’t directly copy/paste words from your activities list or honors section. Make sure your response adds new information about you that isn’t present anywhere else in your profile.

Additional Tips

• Know what the school is looking for: An important part of doing school research includes digging in to find out what the school wants out of these essays. On its website , Georgia Tech adds that it’s wants your responses to achieve the following:
• Demonstrate authenticity & self-awareness
• Demonstrate thoughtfulness
• Display attention to topic, style, and grammar
• Demonstrate a student has thought about why Georgia Tech, specifically, is a fit for them and how their goals align with Georgia Tech’s mission statement: “The Georgia Institute of Technology is a public research university established by the state of Georgia in Atlanta in 1885 and committed to developing leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition.”

Make sure your answer fits this bill. If you’ve got any doubts, make sure you ask another reader such as a teacher, parent, friend, or college counselor to see if you’re meeting the criteria.

• Use Your Common Application Profile As Inspiration - Chances are, other schools on your list also use the Common Application. You’ve likely already written a personal statement. While you don’t want to repeat yourself, you can likely repurpose your personal statement content to fit Prompt #2. If there’s anything in your Common App essay that you haven’t gotten a chance to express for the Georgia Tech essay, you can use your essay as a base, and cut down words to fit the limit the school has set.
• Cut unnecessary words: It’s obvious that the Georgia Tech College supplemental essays 2020-2021 provide you very little room to write your answers. Between the two essays, you only get around 600 words! It can be tricky to get your point across in so little space. But, you can’t change the limit. So don’t waste your time sulking or complaining about the fact that you’re 300 words over on your essay and start cutting words. Use a thesaurus, ask a teacher or friend for feedback, and read sentences out loud to see if they’d still make sense if you shorten them. 

The Georgia Tech application essays 2020-2021 provide you with the chance to tell the admissions officer who you are. While the first prompt is all about showing that you really have done your research, the optional essays enable you to share more about your background and interests. Both are golden opportunities to solidify your interest in Georgia Tech and convince them how you embody the values they look for in students. So, take advantage of the supplemental essay component. Your knowledge of the school and stories exemplifying Georgia Tech’s ideal characteristics might end up getting you admitted.

Tags : how to write the georgia tech application essays , georgia tech application essays 2020-2021 , georgia tech essays , georgia tech application , applying to georgia tech

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How to Respond to the 2023-2024 Georgia Tech Supplemental Essay Prompts

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Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

The Georgia Institute of Technology is a public research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. Commonly known as Georgia Tech, this university is  known for its top engineering programs. Georgia Tech has a 16% overall acceptance rate, so you will need to really showcase your strengths in order to stand out amongst so many applicants.

After completing Common Application personal essay , Georgia Tech applicants should turn their attention to supplemental essays. Although many schools have multiple prompts to answer, Georgia Tech asks for just one. 

For some students, this is great news because it’s less writing. On the other hand, it also gives you less space to elaborate on your story. With proper planning, however, you are sure to communicate your personality and goals successfully. 

Let’s take a deep-dive into the Georgia Tech supplemental essays. Read on for tips on how to craft a stand-out response!

Also see:  Scholarhips360’s free scholarship search tool

Georgia Tech supplemental essays: Prompt #1 

“Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech? (50-300 words)”

This prompt is a classic “why” question. But unlike some other schools’ questions that reference the whole student experience, you need to drill down on academics here. There are two main pieces, asking: What is your biggest intellectual interest? And why is Georgia Tech the best place to study this topic? 

You should have chosen your major for a reason. Have you always had a knack for a certain subject? Are you fascinated by the developments in a particular field? Do you have a dream career? Think about what draws you to this major and an anecdote that brings this reasoning to life. For example, say your intended major is Building Construction. You could discuss how your biggest role model growing up was your grandfather, a general contractor. A nice hook could be describing your childhood enthralled with exploring his lots in-progress. Or, perhaps you have your sights set on Biomedical Engineering. Your anecdote could be about a revolutionary medical device that emulates the type of innovation you hope to contribute to.

There are all kinds of ways to elaborate, from sharing a personal story to discussing an individual curiosity. Adding in this detail goes a long way in letting your sincerity shine through.  Computer and Information Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Industrial Engineering are GT’s most popular majors. Keep in mind there will be heightened pressure to convey your distinction for these study tracks with so many top-notch applicants. 

Also see:  How to write an essay about yourself

Do your GT homework!

Now that you have stated why you selected your particular major, do your research. GT consistently ranks as one of the top technology, science, and business universities. Investigate why that may be. Look into GT’s course catalogs, professors, student research, alumni, special events, and more. Make a list of anything that genuinely excites you. Then, see how you can utilize these intriguing offerings to help accomplish your academic and professional aspirations. The more specific you can be, the better.

Finally, keep GT’s mission in mind. It states: The Georgia Institute of Technology is a public research university established by the state of Georgia in Atlanta in 1885 and committed to developing leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition. How will you take advantage of GT’s resources to accomplish these noble feats? What new groundbreaking discoveries do you hope to make? What plans do you have for giving back to the community through your major? 

These three components to the prompt should end up telling a cohesive narrative. First, offer a story for why you chose your major. Next, explain why GT is the best choice for pursuing that major and why (with details). And to conclude, how will your studies make a difference? 

Questions to consider: 

• What fuels your intellectual curiosity?  
• How might your major help you achieve your career aspirations?
• Which distinct Georgia Tech resources are you most excited to utilize? 
• How can the field of technology be improved? 

Final thoughts for students

The Georgia Tech admissions committee offers advice for applicants on their website. Beyond making sure you are addressing the prompt content-wise, don’t forget strong writing skills. Be sure you are submitting a well-written, grammatically correct response. Also avoid repetition. In addition, don’t try to write what you think admissions wants to hear; being true to what your passion is will ensure your voice is authentic. Finally, be confident! Conviction in your path to achieve your dreams will signal to GT that you are a great fit. You can ace this essay! 

While you are applying to colleges (and before and after as well!), be sure to apply for all the scholarships you are eligible for!

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Additional resources

As you’re applying to colleges, you have a lot of decisions to make. While you work on your Georgia Tech supplemental essays, check out some of our resources to help guide you through other questions.

• Finding safety, reach, and match schools
• How many schools should I apply to?
• How to complete the Common App activities section
• Asking for letters of recommendation for college

Other colleges to consider

• University of Georgia (Athens, GA)
• Emory University (Atlanta, GA)
• Wake Forest University (Winston-Salem, NC)

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How to Get into Georgia Tech: Admission Requirements and Tips

By Eric Eng

The Georgia Institute of Technology is one of the top schools in the United States, known for its rigorous academics and innovative research. If you’re considering applying to Georgia Tech, it’s important to understand the admissions process and what it takes to stand out from the thousands of applicants.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to increase your chances of getting into Georgia Tech.

Overview of Georgia Tech

Georgia Tech, officially known as the Georgia Institute of Technology, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1885. Located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, it stands as a prominent educational institution in the Southeastern United States, blending a vibrant campus life with the dynamism of an urban setting.

Nationally, the 2023-2024 US News & World Report Best Colleges ranks Georgia Tech 33rd . Globally, it holds the 36th position according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2024. These rankings reflect its esteemed status in both the American and international academic communities.

The institute has an impressive list of alumni, including Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States and Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 2007, and Kary Mullis, a Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry in 1993 for his pioneering work in genetic engineering. These distinguished individuals exemplify the caliber of Georgia Tech graduates.

Georgia Tech is renowned for its strong programs in engineering, computing, and sciences. It’s particularly noted for its cutting-edge research and innovation in areas like robotics, cybersecurity, and sustainable energy. These programs attract a diverse and talented student body from around the world.

Understanding Georgia Tech’s history, prestige, and renowned programs is crucial for your application. It highlights the importance of demonstrating not only academic excellence but also a passion for innovation and a commitment to making a significant impact in your field of interest. Your application should reflect an alignment with Georgia Tech’s values and a clear understanding of how its programs can nurture your aspirations.

How Hard Is It to Get into Georgia Tech?

With an acceptance rate of just 16%, Georgia Tech’s admissions process is undeniably selective. This figure represents the competitive nature of applications and the high standards set by the institution.

A mere 16 out of every 100 applicants are granted admission, underscoring the importance of standing out in the applicant pool.

Georgia Tech’s acceptance rate

In recent years, Georgia Tech’s acceptance rate has consistently hovered at or below 20%:

These numbers indicate a trend of increasing selectivity. This decline reflects the growing number of applicants and the institute’s enhanced focus on admitting students who not only excel academically but also bring unique skills and perspectives.

For the class of 2027, Georgia Tech received 52,354 applications , of which only 16% were successful. This translates to a highly competitive landscape, where every application must be carefully crafted to stand out among a large pool of talented candidates.

Prospective students should view this acceptance rate as a realistic indicator of the competition they face. It’s not just about being academically qualified; it’s about differentiating oneself in a pool of highly qualified applicants.

Factors influencing the acceptance rate

Understanding these factors is essential for applicants to align their applications with what Georgia Tech is looking for in its prospective students:

• Increased Applicant Volume: More students are applying, driven by Georgia Tech’s growing reputation.
• Rising Academic Standards: The institute continually raises its academic expectations, seeking students with exceptional academic records.
• Holistic Admission Process: Beyond grades and test scores, Georgia Tech looks at extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations.
• Geographical and Cultural Diversity: There’s a concerted effort to create a diverse student body, affecting the dynamics of admission decisions.

Georgia Tech Admission Requirements

Gaining admission to Georgia Tech requires more than just a strong academic record. It’s a multifaceted process that assesses a range of factors, each contributing to the overall strength of your application. Here’s an overview of the key components:

• GPA and Course Rigor: A high GPA , especially in challenging courses, is vital. Georgia Tech values students who have excelled in a rigorous academic environment.
• Minimum Course Requirements: Applicants must meet certain course prerequisites, particularly in math and science, to demonstrate their preparedness for Georgia Tech’s demanding programs.
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores are required and play a significant role in the admissions decision. High scores, especially in math and science sections, are favorable.
• Extracurricular Activities: Georgia Tech values well-rounded students. Participation in extracurricular activities, particularly those showing leadership or a passion for STEM fields, is important.
• Essays: Essays provide a platform for applicants to express their unique personality, goals, and fit for Georgia Tech. They are crucial for standing out in the application process.
• Recommendation Letters: While optional, submitting letters of recommendation are highly encouraged. They should ideally come from teachers or mentors who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities and personal character.
• Interview (for International Applicants): International applicants may participate in an interview, offering an opportunity to further demonstrate their suitability for Georgia Tech.

The admission process at Georgia Tech is comprehensive and holistic. Each application is evaluated on its individual merits, with a focus on how the applicant’s achievements, experiences, and goals align with what Georgia Tech offers. The process goes beyond mere academic metrics to assess the potential contributions of each student to the campus community.

What Does Georgia Tech Look for in Students?

To successfully apply to Georgia Tech, it’s crucial to understand the values this prestigious institution seeks in its students. These values are not just about academic achievements but also about personal attributes and motivations. Knowing them helps you tailor your application to resonate with what Georgia Tech values most.

1. Academic background

Georgia Tech prioritizes students with a robust academic record, especially in math and science disciplines. High grades are a basic expectation, but the institute delves deeper, seeking students who actively engage in intellectually demanding coursework.

This engagement indicates a genuine interest in learning and a readiness for the academic rigors Georgia Tech is known for. Applicants who challenge themselves with advanced courses, such as AP or IB classes , particularly in STEM fields, often stand out in the admissions process.

2. Pursuits and interests outside the classroom

Beyond academics, Georgia Tech values students who demonstrate a well-rounded character. Engagement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, or other personal pursuits is highly regarded.

These activities reveal a student’s ability to balance academic rigor with other interests, showcasing qualities like time management , leadership, and a commitment to making a difference. Participation in STEM-related extracurriculars can be particularly compelling, as it aligns with Georgia Tech’s focus, but diverse interests that show a well-rounded personality are equally important.

3. Embracing challenges and advancing Georgia Tech’s mission

Georgia Tech is on the lookout for students who are not only academically capable but also passionate about embracing challenges and furthering the institute’s mission to “improve the human condition.” This phrase is a succinct summary of Georgia Tech’s ethos, embodying a commitment to innovation, a zeal for solving complex problems, and a desire to positively impact society.

Applicants who demonstrate these qualities through their academic choices, extracurricular involvements, and personal essays tend to resonate more with the admissions committee. Showing a clear understanding and alignment with this mission can significantly enhance an application’s appeal.

In summary, by aligning your application with these values, you’ll be demonstrating not only your suitability for Georgia Tech but also your potential to contribute meaningfully to its community.

Georgia Tech GPA and SAT Requirements

At Georgia Tech, GPA and SAT scores are critical components of the admissions process. These metrics serve as standard benchmarks for academic ability and readiness for college-level work, especially in a highly competitive environment like Georgia Tech.

A strong GPA and high SAT scores demonstrate a student’s mastery of high school coursework and potential to excel in a rigorous academic setting. A high GPA, particularly in challenging courses, indicates consistent academic performance and the ability to handle a demanding curriculum.

Similarly, the SAT, with its focus on critical reading, mathematics, and writing, helps assess a student’s preparedness for the kinds of analytical and quantitative challenges they will encounter at Georgia Tech.

For Georgia Tech, these measures are not just about raw numbers; they are indicators of a student’s dedication, intellectual capacity, and suitability for the challenging programs offered. Students with strong GPA and SAT scores are often well-equipped to thrive in Georgia Tech’s academically demanding environment.

Georgia Tech GPA Requirements

The average weighted GPA of students admitted to Georgia Tech is an impressive 4.1. While Georgia Tech does not enforce a strict minimum GPA requirement, this average indicates the high academic standard expected from applicants.

A GPA of 4.1 usually implies that a student has not only excelled in standard coursework but also successfully undertaken more challenging Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. Nationally, this places Georgia Tech’s admitted students in a highly competitive academic bracket, reflecting the institute’s status as one of the country’s top engineering and technology schools.

When evaluating these statistics, it’s important to understand that while a high GPA is crucial, it’s not the sole factor in admission decisions. Georgia Tech employs a holistic review process. However, a high GPA can significantly bolster an application, indicating strong academic preparation and the ability to handle challenging coursework.

GPA recommendations

Given the average GPA of admitted students, aspiring applicants should aim for a weighted GPA of 4.1 or higher.

Here are some tips to help you reach this goal:

• Enroll in AP, IB, or honors courses if available. Excelling in these classes can boost your weighted GPA and demonstrate your ability to handle college-level work.
• Given Georgia Tech’s emphasis on science and technology, excelling in math and science courses can be particularly beneficial.
• Aim for consistent performance across all subjects. While excelling in STEM is important, a well-rounded academic record is also valued.
• If you’re struggling in a subject, don’t hesitate to seek extra help. Tutoring, study groups, or extra time with teachers can make a significant difference.
• Balancing a challenging course load with extracurriculars requires good time management. Prioritize your tasks and stay organized.
• Regularly review material and prepare thoroughly for all tests and exams, as these significantly impact your GPA.
• If your grades dip, analyze why and learn from your mistakes. Show an upward trend in your academic performance.

Remember, while a high GPA is important, it’s just one part of your application. Georgia Tech looks for well-rounded students, so balance your academic efforts with extracurricular achievements.

Georgia Tech Course Requirements

Understanding the required courses for admission to Georgia Tech is essential in planning your high school curriculum. Meeting these requirements not only ensures eligibility but also demonstrates your preparedness for the academic rigor of Georgia Tech.

Georgia Tech requires these minimum academic courses:

• English (4 Units): Four years of English focus on developing strong reading, writing, and critical thinking skills . Courses typically include literature, composition, and rhetoric.
• Math (4 Units): Mathematics courses are integral to Georgia Tech’s curriculum. Four years of math, including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and higher-level courses like Calculus or Statistics, are required. These courses lay the foundation for advanced study in STEM fields.
• Science (4 Units): Science courses should include laboratory work and cover at least two different sciences such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Earth/Environmental Science. Four units in science indicate a strong foundation in scientific principles and methods.
• Social Science (3 Units): A minimum of three years in social sciences, including history, economics, sociology, or similar subjects, helps develop a broad understanding of societal dynamics and historical contexts.
• Foreign Language (2 Units): Two units of the same foreign language emphasize the importance of global awareness and communication skills in a diverse world. This requirement also fosters cognitive and cultural understanding.

Course recommendations

When selecting your high school courses, it’s important to consider how they align with Georgia Tech’s expectations and your future academic goals. Here are some recommendations:

• Whenever possible, choose AP, IB, or honors courses, especially in math and science. These classes demonstrate your ability to handle college-level work and intellectual rigor.
• While focusing on STEM courses is beneficial, don’t neglect the humanities and social sciences. A well-rounded education is valuable and shows versatility.
• Aim to advance each year in these subjects, culminating in the most challenging courses available, such as Calculus and Advanced Physics.
• Instead of superficially studying multiple languages, achieve proficiency in one. This demonstrates dedication and the ability to master complex skills.
• If you have a specific area of interest, such as engineering or computer science, taking related electives can strengthen your application and prepare you for your intended major.
• While enrolling in challenging courses is important, it’s equally crucial to achieve strong grades in them. Strive for excellence across all subjects to maintain a competitive GPA.

By thoughtfully selecting your courses, you’ll be better prepared for the academic challenges at Georgia Tech and demonstrate your commitment to academic excellence.

Georgia Tech SAT Requirements

The SAT is a standardized test that assesses a student’s readiness for college. It measures critical reading, writing, and mathematical skills that are important for academic success in college. The test is designed to provide colleges with a common data point for comparing all applicants.

Georgia Tech does not have an absolute minimum SAT score requirement. However, these statistics show the typical range of scores among admitted students:

These SAT scores are significantly higher than the national average, reflecting Georgia Tech’s status as a top-tier institution. A high SAT score in this context means that you’re academically prepared to succeed in a challenging college environment.

Achieving a score in the 75th percentile (1530) sets you among the top quartile of applicants, significantly bolstering your application. This high score can provide a considerable advantage, indicating that you are well-prepared for the academic rigor Georgia Tech is known for.

On the other hand, scoring in the 25th percentile (1370) for your SAT places you at the lower end of the spectrum among admitted Georgia Tech students. While it’s a competitive score, it suggests that other aspects of your application, like extracurriculars and essays, need to be particularly strong to compensate.

When considering these statistics, remember that SAT scores are just one part of your application. While important, they are evaluated in conjunction with your GPA, coursework, essays, and other components of your application.

SAT recommendations

Aspiring Georgia Tech applicants should aim for the 75th percentile score (1530) or higher.

• Begin your SAT prep well in advance of your test date to allow ample time for practice and improvement.
• Utilize resources from the College Board and Khan Academy for the most relevant and accurate practice materials.
• Identify areas where you need improvement and dedicate extra time to those sections.
• Simulate real test conditions by taking full-length, timed practice tests. This helps build endurance and time management skills.
• If you’re struggling with self-study, a prep course or tutor can provide structured learning and personalized feedback.
• After practice tests, thoroughly review your errors to understand and learn from them.
• Regular and consistent study is more effective than cramming. Set a study schedule and stick to it.
• Ensure you get adequate sleep and maintain a healthy lifestyle leading up to the test, as physical well-being can significantly impact your performance.

Georgia Tech ACT Requirements

The ACT is a standardized test that evaluates college readiness. It measures a range of skills including English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. Unlike the SAT, the ACT includes a science section that assesses interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.

It’s important to note that Georgia Tech does not consider the optional ACT writing section.

Georgia Tech does not set an absolute minimum ACT score requirement. Still, these figures provide insight into the caliber of students typically admitted:

The ACT scores for Georgia Tech students are well above the national average, reflecting the institution’s high academic standards. A high ACT score in this context signifies a student’s capability to excel in a challenging college environment like Georgia Tech.

Achieving a score in the 75th percentile (35) places you among the top applicants, significantly bolstering your application and indicating a high level of preparedness for Georgia Tech’s rigorous academic environment. Therefore, a score in this higher range can provide a substantial advantage in the competitive admissions process.

Meanwhile, scoring in the 25th percentile (31) on the ACT places you above the lower quarter of admitted students to Georgia Tech, indicating that while your score is competitive, other areas of your application need to be particularly strong to stand out.

When considering these statistics, remember that while ACT scores are important, they are part of a holistic admissions process. They should be viewed in conjunction with other elements of your application, like GPA, essays, and extracurriculars.

ACT recommendations

To enhance your Georgia Tech application, aim for an ACT score of 35 or higher.

• Familiarize yourself with the ACT format, including the types of questions and time constraints in each section.
• Focus on areas where you need improvement, especially if you’re weaker in one of the ACT’s four sections (English, Math, Reading, Science).
• Take full-length, timed ACT practice tests to get used to the pace and pressure of the actual exam.
• Carefully review your practice tests to understand your mistakes and learn from them.
• Utilize reputable study guides and online resources tailored to the ACT.
• Work on answering questions more quickly and accurately, as time management is crucial for the ACT.
• If you need additional support, professional ACT preparation courses or tutors can provide personalized guidance.
• Ensure you are well-rested and healthy on the day of the exam. Your physical and mental well-being can significantly impact your performance.

Is Georgia Tech Test-Optional?

Georgia Tech requires SAT or ACT scores as part of the admissions process. This policy underscores the importance of standardized tests in evaluating applicants’ readiness for college-level work. While Georgia Tech values a holistic review, SAT or ACT scores remain a significant component of the application.

As an applicant, this means that preparing for and performing well on the SAT or ACT is an essential part of your application strategy. Your scores can significantly influence your admissions chances, especially in a competitive pool of candidates.

While SAT/ACT scores are mandatory, Georgia Tech considers other standardized tests like AP, IB, and AS & A Level exams as optional. These scores may not be required for admission, but they can provide college credit for students who enroll.

If you have taken any of these tests and believe they bolster your application, you are encouraged to submit them. Including these scores can enhance your academic profile, especially if they reflect high achievement in areas relevant to your intended field of study.

The requirement of SAT or ACT scores reflects Georgia Tech’s commitment to maintaining a high academic standard. These tests provide a consistent measure for assessing student preparedness across diverse educational backgrounds.

The optional consideration of AP, IB, and AS & A Level scores allows for additional demonstration of subject mastery and college readiness, aligning with Georgia Tech’s rigorous academic environment. Understanding Georgia Tech’s testing policy and its implications is crucial for tailoring your application effectively.

Does Georgia Tech Superscore SAT and ACT?

Georgia Tech superscores both the SAT and ACT. This means that if you take either test multiple times, the university will consider the highest score from each section across all your test dates. This approach allows Georgia Tech to assess your highest potential as demonstrated across multiple testing instances.

For you as an applicant, this superscoring policy can be highly beneficial. It allows you the flexibility to focus on improving specific sections of the SAT or ACT in subsequent tests, without worrying about other sections’ scores decreasing.

This policy encourages you to give your best performance in each section, knowing that your highest scores will be considered collectively. As a result, you have a better opportunity to maximize your overall score, making your application more competitive for admission to Georgia Tech.

Georgia Tech Application Essays

Essays are a vital component of your Georgia Tech application. They offer a unique opportunity to showcase your personality, writing skills, and fit with the university.

Unlike test scores and grades, essays allow you to express your individual experiences, aspirations, and perspectives. A well-crafted essay can make a significant difference in how the admissions committee perceives your application.

Georgia Tech requires the following essays: Common Application Personal Essay and Georgia Tech Short-Answer Question.

For the first essay, you must choose one of the seven essay prompts provided by the Common Application. This essay is your chance to share a significant story or experience that has shaped who you are. It’s an opportunity to provide depth beyond your academic achievements and extracurricular activities.

In addition to the Common App essay, you are required to write a short answer (maximum 300 words) to the prompt: “Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech?” This question seeks to understand your academic interests and how they align with what Georgia Tech offers.

Crafting compelling essays for your Georgia Tech application is crucial for standing out in the admissions process. Here are some tips to help you write impactful essays:

• Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand what each prompt is asking. Tailor your response to directly address the question.
• Write in your own voice and share genuine experiences and thoughts. Authenticity makes your essay memorable and relatable.
• Structure your essay with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Ensure your ideas flow logically and are easy to follow.
• In the short-answer question, specifically address why Georgia Tech’s programs, culture, and opportunities are a good fit for your goals and interests.
• Whether discussing a personal experience or your academic interests, use specific examples to illustrate your points. This adds depth and credibility to your essay.
• Let your personality shine through. Whether it’s your sense of humor, passion, curiosity, or resilience, let the admissions committee get to know you.
• Make sure to proofread your essays for grammar and spelling errors. Consider getting feedback from teachers, counselors, or peers to refine your essays.
• Adhere to the word limits. Being concise demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively and respects the admissions officers’ time.

Georgia Tech Recommendation Letters

Recommendation letters play a significant role in the Georgia Tech admissions process. While optional, they are highly encouraged as they provide insight into your character, work ethic, and academic abilities from perspectives other than your own.

Well-written recommendations can offer a more comprehensive view of you as a student and individual, complementing the quantitative aspects of your application like grades and test scores.

Georgia Tech allows for up to four recommendation letters.

They may come from:

• Your School Counselor: A letter from your school counselor can provide an overview of your academic journey, highlighting your personal growth, challenges overcome, and contributions to the school community.
• Up to Two Teachers: You can submit up to two letters from teachers of core academic subjects. These letters should ideally come from instructors who have taught you recently and can speak to your academic performance, engagement in class, and intellectual curiosity.
• Another Recommender: This could be from a clergy member, college access counselor, employer, or another adult who knows you well in a professional or community context. It should not come from a coach, peer, or family member. These letters can shed light on aspects of your personality and abilities that may not be evident in the classroom.

Each of these recommendations offers a unique perspective on your abilities and potential, and including them in your application can significantly enhance your profile to the admissions committee.

Tips for seeking recommendation letters

Securing strong recommendation letters is an important step in your application to Georgia Tech. Here are some strategies to ensure your recommendations are impactful:

• Select individuals who know you well and can speak to your strengths, achievements, and growth. They should be able to provide specific examples and insights that highlight your readiness for college.
• Approach your potential recommenders well in advance. This gives them ample time to write a thoughtful letter.
• Offer your recommenders information about Georgia Tech and what you’re hoping to showcase in your application. This can help them tailor their letter to align with your goals.
• Remind them of specific achievements or instances in their class or activity that they might highlight in their recommendation.
• Gently remind them as the deadline approaches, if necessary. Always express your gratitude for their time and effort.

Tips for recommenders

If you’re writing a recommendation letter for a Georgia Tech applicant, here are some tips to make your letter as effective as possible:

• Include detailed examples of the student’s academic achievements, personal qualities, and growth. Vague statements are less impactful than concrete anecdotes.
• Discuss the student’s potential for success in a rigorous academic environment and their suitability for the fields of study they are interested in.
• Beyond academics, mention qualities like curiosity, resilience, teamwork, or leadership that you have observed.
• Stick to relevant information and keep the letter to a maximum of one page if possible.
• Ensure your letter is free from spelling and grammatical errors. A well-written letter reflects well on the student.
• Be mindful of the application deadlines and submit your letter accordingly.

Extracurricular Activities for Georgia Tech Application

In the context of Georgia Tech’s application, extracurricular activities hold substantial weight. These activities demonstrate your passion and commitment beyond the classroom, providing a practical application of your interests and skills.

Engaging in extracurriculars related to STEM—like robotics clubs, science fairs, coding competitions, or math clubs—can be particularly compelling for Georgia Tech.

However, it’s not just about STEM-focused activities. Leadership roles, community service, arts, sports, and other areas of involvement also play a crucial role. They showcase a well-rounded character, leadership skills, teamwork, and a commitment to personal growth and community involvement.

Georgia Tech values students who are not only academically proficient but also actively engaged in applying their knowledge and skills in various contexts. This reflects a student’s ability to thrive in Georgia Tech’s dynamic and diverse environment, where practical application and innovation are highly valued.

Extracurricular activities tips

To make your Georgia Tech application stand out, it’s important to effectively showcase your extracurricular activities. Here are some strategies to help you do so:

• If you’re planning to pursue a STEM-related field, participation in STEM extracurricular activities can be particularly impactful. Activities like science clubs, robotics teams, or coding competitions demonstrate your passion and aptitude for these subjects.
• Highlight any leadership roles or initiatives you’ve taken in your activities. This could include leading a project, organizing an event, or founding a club. Leadership skills are highly valued at Georgia Tech.
• Long-term involvement in activities is more impressive than a long list of one-off participations. It shows dedication and the ability to balance commitments.
• While aligning with your intended major is beneficial, also showcasing a range of interests can demonstrate a well-rounded personality. This might include arts, sports, or community service.
• If your extracurricular activities have led to measurable outcomes (like awards, recognitions, or specific accomplishments), make sure to include these details.
• In your application, particularly in essays, reflect on what you’ve learned from these activities and how they have shaped your aspirations and character.
• Focus on including activities where you’ve had significant involvement and impact, rather than listing every activity you’ve participated in.

Georgia Tech Interview

For non-native English-speaking applicants, the Georgia Tech interview is an optional but valuable component of the application process.

This interview primarily assesses your proficiency in English but also provides an opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills, personality, and enthusiasm for Georgia Tech. Completing the interview before the deadline of your chosen application plan is crucial.

It’s important to note that Georgia Tech does not offer alumni, in-person, phone, or online interviews with applicants other than non-native English speakers through these platforms.

Interview tips

Preparing effectively for your Georgia Tech interview can significantly enhance your application, especially if English is not your first language. Here are some tips to help you excel:

• Regularly engage in conversations in English to improve your fluency and comfort level.
• Familiarize yourself with the university’s programs, values, and what it stands for. This knowledge can help you articulate why you’re a good fit for the school.
• While the interview focuses on English proficiency, being prepared to talk about your academic interests, extracurricular activities, and reasons for applying to Georgia Tech can be beneficial.
• Authenticity is key. Be honest and genuine in your responses, and let your personality shine through.
• Speak clearly and confidently. Make sure to listen to the questions carefully and give thoughtful responses.
• Practicing with a teacher, counselor, or friend can help you become more comfortable with the interview format.
• Know the technical aspects of the interview platform (InitialView or Vericant) and ensure you’re comfortable with the technology.
• Make sure to complete your interview before the application deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

Georgia Tech Application Requirements

When applying to Georgia Tech, understanding and meeting all application requirements is crucial for a successful submission. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the mandatory, optional, and other specific requirements, along with tips to help you navigate each component effectively.

Mandatory requirements

• Common Application: This application includes your basic information, details about your extracurricular activities, and essays. Ensure all sections are accurately completed, and use the activities list to emphasize your most significant commitments and achievements.
• Personal Essays: You need to submit one essay from the Common Application prompts and a short-answer question specific to Georgia Tech. Your essays should be authentic and reflective, showcasing your unique personality and your fit with Georgia Tech.
• Standardized Test Scores (SAT or ACT): SAT or ACT scores are a required element of your application. Strive for high scores, particularly in the upper percentiles, to boost your application’s competitiveness.
• High School Transcripts: These transcripts provide a detailed record of your academic performance throughout high school. Maintain strong grades, as Georgia Tech values consistent academic excellence.
• Secondary School Report: This report, completed by your high school counselor, offers context about your academic background. Engage with your counselor to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of your academic journey and school involvement.
• Application Fee or Waiver: The application fee is $75 for domestic applicants and $85 for international applicants. If the application fee is financially burdensome, consider applying for a waiver.

Optional requirements

• Recommendation Letters (up to 4): These letters provide additional insights into your character, work ethic, and academic abilities. Select recommenders who can provide detailed anecdotes and examples of your strengths and achievements.
• AP, IB, and AS & A Level Exams: Scores from these exams are not required but can be submitted for potential college credit. Report any high scores in these exams to demonstrate your mastery of specific subjects.

Other requirements

• College Transcripts: If you have Dual Enrollment credit, submitting college transcripts is required. Ensure these transcripts clearly reflect your academic performance in college-level courses.
• English Proficiency Exams: These exams are an optional requirement for non-native English speakers to demonstrate language proficiency. Taking these exams can be beneficial if English is not your first language, as it showcases your ability to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment.
• Interview: An interview is an optional component for non-native English speakers, conducted through platforms like InitialView and Vericant. Use this opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills and your enthusiasm for attending Georgia Tech.

How to Apply to Georgia Tech

Navigating the application process for Georgia Tech can seem daunting, but with careful planning and organization, it can be a manageable and even rewarding experience.

Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide that breaks down the application process into five major phases, helping you stay on track from preparation to awaiting your results.

1. Preparation and research

Begin by thoroughly researching Georgia Tech’s programs, values, and culture to ensure it aligns with your academic and career goals. During this phase, focus on understanding the application requirements, including standardized tests, essays, and recommendation letters.

Start preparing for any necessary standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, and consider which teachers or counselors you might ask for recommendations.

This is also the time to start brainstorming ideas for your essays.

2. Gathering and organizing application materials

This phase involves compiling all the necessary components of your application. Gather your high school transcripts, standardized test scores, and begin drafting your essays. Reach out to your chosen recommenders, providing them with ample time to write their letters.

Keep track of all deadlines and create a checklist to ensure you don’t miss any important steps.

3. Completing the application

With all materials at hand, it’s time to fill out the Common Application . Pay special attention to the details, ensuring that all information is accurate and complete. Write and revise your personal essays, tailoring them to reflect your fit with Georgia Tech.

Once your essays and application form are complete, review everything thoroughly before submission.

4. Submission and follow-up

Submit your application before the deadline, along with the application fee or a fee waiver if applicable. After submission, follow up with your recommenders to ensure their letters have been sent.

It’s also a good practice to confirm with Georgia Tech that your application is complete and all materials have been received.

5. Awaiting results

Once your application is submitted, the waiting period begins. Use this time to continue focusing on your current academic responsibilities and extracurricular activities. Also, begin exploring financial aid options and scholarships.

When decisions are released, review your offer carefully, and consider visiting the campus if you haven’t already, to help make your final decision.

How to Submit Supplemental Materials to Georgia Tech

Georgia Tech has specific guidelines for submitting supplemental materials as part of your college application.

Georgia Tech does not require supplemental materials for general admission. However, they do provide an option for up to four recommendations, all of which are optional and not necessary for admission consideration.

These can include a counselor recommendation and up to two teacher recommendations from core academic subjects, as well as one additional recommendation from a non-academic source such as a clergy member, college access counselor, or employer​​.

Submission methods

Georgia Tech strongly recommends electronic document submission whenever possible, to expedite the processing of documents. This can be done through the Common Application or other services such as Parchment, SCOIR, SLATE, Naviance, Maia Learning, or GA Futures.

If electronic submission is not available, documents can be mailed to Georgia Tech’s Office of Undergraduate Admission. It is recommended to use a trackable mailing method for security and confirmation purposes​​.

Step-by-step guide

• Start by completing your application through the Common Application.
• If you decide to include recommendations, select up to four individuals who can provide meaningful insight into your academic or personal qualities.
• Ensure your high school transcripts are sent electronically via the Common App or through another service. If you have dual enrollment credits, make sure these are included or send the college transcripts separately.
• You can self-report standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, AP, etc.) on your Common Application or through your Admission Portal. Official scores are required only if you enroll at Georgia Tech.
• If you’re submitting documents electronically, use the designated email address or service as specified by Georgia Tech.
• If mailing is required, use the full mailing address provided by Georgia Tech and consider a trackable mailing method.
• Be mindful of the specific deadlines for document submission, which are typically a couple of weeks after the application submission deadline. For Early Action and Regular Decision, these deadlines vary and are clearly outlined by Georgia Tech​​.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully complete your application to Georgia Tech, ensuring all necessary and optional supplemental materials are appropriately submitted.

Georgia Tech Scholarships and Financial Aid

Georgia Tech offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help students finance their education, making it more accessible and affordable. These financial supports are categorized mainly into merit-based and need-based aids.

Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and other special talents. These scholarships do not require repayment and are designed to recognize and reward outstanding applicants.

Georgia Tech’s merit-based scholarships can range from partial to full tuition coverage, and some may also offer additional benefits like stipends for living expenses or study abroad programs.

On the other hand, need-based financial aid is provided to students based on their financial need, which is determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This aid can include grants, work-study programs, and federal student loans.

Grants are a form of financial aid that does not require repayment, whereas loans must be repaid with interest. The work-study program offers part-time employment opportunities to students, allowing them to earn money to help pay for their education while gaining valuable work experience.

Georgia Tech also participates in federal, state, and institutional programs, offering various forms of financial assistance to eligible students. It’s important for students and families to explore all available options and apply early for financial aid to ensure they receive the maximum assistance for which they are eligible.

Additionally, the university’s financial aid office provides resources and guidance to help students navigate the process of applying for and managing their financial aid.

By providing these diverse financial aid options, Georgia Tech ensures that talented students from all economic backgrounds have the opportunity to pursue their educational goals at the institute.

Georgia Tech Regular Decision vs Early Action

When applying to Georgia Tech, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between the Regular Decision and Early Action admission plans. Georgia Tech offers three admission plans for first-year applicants: Early Action 1 (EA1), Early Action 2 (EA2), and Regular Decision (RD) .

EA1 is exclusively for Georgia residents, including those attending high school out of state. It allows students to receive their admission decision earlier without the binding commitment of some early decision programs at other universities.

EA2 is available to all applicants, including international and out-of-state students. Like EA1, it offers the benefit of receiving an earlier admission decision without the binding commitment.

The RD plan is open to all applicants and has a later application deadline compared to the Early Action rounds. This option gives students more time to prepare their application, improve test scores, or focus on senior year grades.

As an applicant, your choice between these admission plans should depend on several factors. If you are a Georgia resident and have a strong application ready early in the application cycle, EA1 could be an advantageous option. It offers the chance to receive an early decision while still allowing you to explore other colleges.

For non-resident and international students, EA2 is a great choice if you want to demonstrate strong interest in Georgia Tech and are confident in the competitiveness of your application early in the school year.

However, if you feel that additional time could strengthen your application, whether through improved grades or test scores, the Regular Decision plan might be more suitable.

Georgia Tech Application Deadlines

When planning your application to Georgia Tech, it’s essential to be aware of and adhere to the specific deadlines for each admission plan. Here are the key dates:

• Early Action 1: October 16
• Early Action 2: November 1
• Regular Decision: January 4

Make sure to mark these deadlines in your calendar and plan your application process accordingly to ensure timely submission.

How Hard is It to Get into Georgia Tech?

Gaining admission to Georgia Tech, known for its prestigious reputation in technology and engineering, is a challenging task. The difficulty level is high due to the competitive applicant pool and stringent admission criteria. The acceptance rate at Georgia Tech gives us a clear picture of the competition. For instance, for the Class of 2027, Georgia Tech’s acceptance rate was 16%, meaning only 16 out of every 100 applicants were admitted.

The high standards are not just in terms of academic achievements. Georgia Tech looks for students who excel in their high school courses, particularly in math and science, and who have high SAT or ACT scores. However, the university also considers other aspects. They value students who have demonstrated leadership, community service, and extracurricular achievements. In essence, Georgia Tech seeks well-rounded individuals who have both intellectual prowess and the capacity to contribute positively to their community.

Benefits of Attending Georgia Tech

Attending Georgia Tech offers numerous benefits that extend beyond the excellent academic programs. Firstly, the university is renowned for its engineering and computer science programs, consistently ranked among the top in the United States. This academic excellence ensures that students receive a robust education that is both theoretical and practical, preparing them for the challenges of the modern workforce.

Beyond academics, Georgia Tech is situated in Atlanta, Georgia, providing students with abundant opportunities for internships and job placements post-graduation. The city is a hub for numerous Fortune 500 companies and startups, offering a dynamic environment for professional growth.

The campus life at Georgia Tech is another plus. The university fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, with a wide range of student organizations and extracurricular activities. This allows students to develop a well-rounded profile, balancing academics with personal interests and social engagement.

Finally, the global network of Georgia Tech alumni is a significant asset. Graduates become part of a widespread community of professionals, providing networking opportunities and career support long after they have left the university.

How Can an International Student Get into Georgia Tech?

Georgia Tech, renowned for its diverse and global student body, welcomes over 1,000 undergraduate international students each year. Here, let’s explore how international students can successfully apply to this prestigious institution.

Understanding the International Student Application Process

Georgia Tech’s admission process uniquely considers each student’s academic background and educational system. Applications are evaluated based on the context of the applicant’s current location. For instance, if a student from Panama is living in Illinois, their application is reviewed alongside those from Illinois. Similarly, an Illinois native residing in France would be grouped with French applicants. This approach ensures a fair and contextual evaluation, especially for students who have studied in multiple locations.

The Same Application Process for All

International first-year applicants follow the same procedure as domestic students, ensuring a level playing field. However, it’s important to note that transcript requirements might vary.

Demonstrating English Language Proficiency

A key requirement for international applicants at Georgia Tech is to prove English proficiency, typically satisfied by SAT or ACT scores. Since Georgia Tech values active participation in its vibrant academic and social settings, the university assesses English language skills comprehensively. This includes evaluating the primary language of instruction and considering additional measures like the Duolingo English Test. Non-native speakers are also encouraged to submit an unscripted interview through services like InitialView or Vericant.

Transcript Requirements for International Students

Georgia Tech acknowledges the diversity in international educational systems, which often differ from the four-year US high school model. Therefore, the university requires academic records from each year of secondary education. If the high school curriculum is less than four years, a fourth year of transcripts must be submitted after admission but before enrollment.

Georgia Tech’s inclusive and thorough admission process for international students ensures that applicants from all over the world are evaluated fairly, considering their unique educational backgrounds. The emphasis on English proficiency ensures that students are prepared to thrive both academically and socially upon arrival.

How to Get into Georgia Tech as a Transfer Student

Transferring to Georgia Tech can be a promising step in your academic journey, but it requires careful planning and understanding of their criteria. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get into Georgia Tech as a transfer student.

Eligibility

First and foremost, you must be a high school graduate before the application period for your intended term. For instance, if you’re applying for the fall term, you should have graduated from high school before the application opens on January 15.

Transfer Credit Hours

Georgia Tech considers applicants who have completed at least 30 semester or 45 quarter credit hours. This rule applies even if you’ve earned college credits through dual enrollment or credit by exam (AP or IB). However, if you’re applying through a transfer pathway program, credits earned through dual enrollment or exams don’t count toward this requirement. They must be credits earned after high school.

Course Requirements by Major

Each major at Georgia Tech has specific course requirements. You should review the Course Requirements by Major Chart to ensure you meet the prerequisites for your intended major. This is crucial, especially for those applying through programs like Dual Degree Engineering or Regents Engineering Pathway, as they have distinct requirements.

Official Transcripts

You’ll need to provide official transcripts from all previous colleges or universities attended. This includes institutions outside the U.S., where you must also submit a foreign credit evaluation.

English Proficiency

All transfer applicants must prove their English proficiency. This is typically done by presenting transcripts showing completion of two English Composition courses equivalent to Georgia Tech’s English 1101 and 1102. Note that English language proficiency exam scores or English courses taught abroad do not fulfill this requirement.

Grade Point Average (GPA)

The GPA requirements vary by college within Georgia Tech. For the College of Computing and College of Engineering, a minimum of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale is required. For other colleges like Design, Sciences, Liberal Arts, and Business, the requirement is a GPA of 3.0. If you’re applying through a transfer pathway program, check their specific GPA requirements.

Transferring to Georgia Tech demands a thorough understanding of their requirements and meticulous preparation of your application. Ensure your credits, courses, and GPA align with their standards, and you’ll be on the right track to joining this prestigious institution.

Can an Average Student Get into Georgia Tech?

The admission process at Georgia Tech is highly competitive, and while the university looks for academically strong candidates, being an “average” student does not automatically disqualify you. Here’s what you need to know:

Holistic Admissions Approach

Georgia Tech employs a holistic review process, meaning it considers more than just grades and test scores. They look at your entire application, including your essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and life experiences. This approach allows students who may not have top-tier grades but possess other strengths to still be considered.

Maximizing Your Strengths

Maximizing your strengths in a college application, especially for Georgia Tech, involves a multi-faceted approach that can significantly enhance your chances of being accepted. Here’s how you can do it:

• Showcase Your Passion and Commitment: If you excel in areas outside of academics, such as in arts, sports, community service, or leadership, make sure to highlight these in your application.
• Compelling Essays: Use your essays to tell your unique story. Discuss how your experiences have shaped you and what you plan to contribute to the Georgia Tech community.
• Strong Recommendations: Letters from teachers or mentors who can speak to your character, work ethic, and potential can significantly bolster your application.
• Continued Improvement: If your grades have improved over time, this upward trend can be a positive indicator of your dedication and ability to overcome challenges.

Exploring Alternative Pathways

Consider alternative pathways to admission. Georgia Tech may offer programs like conditional acceptance or bridge programs that allow students to demonstrate their potential through additional criteria or coursework.

How to Get into Georgia Tech with a Low GPA

If your GPA is lower than the average for admitted students at a university you’re interested in, it’s important to remember that this doesn’t make your application a lost cause. There are several ways to strengthen your application:

• Focus on Holistic Elements: Emphasize the non-academic aspects of your application. This includes your personal essays, extracurricular activities, and any unique experiences or challenges you have overcome. These elements can provide a more comprehensive picture of your potential as a student at Georgia Tech.
• Address the Issue Directly: If there are specific reasons for your lower GPA, such as personal challenges or extenuating circumstances, consider addressing these in your application. This explanation can provide context to the admissions committee.
• Demonstrate Academic Rigor and Improvement: Show that you have taken challenging courses and have made a significant improvement in your academic performance over time. A strong performance in advanced courses or recent academic achievements can demonstrate your readiness for Georgia Tech’s rigorous environment.
• Seek Strong Letters of Recommendation: Obtain recommendations from teachers or counselors who can speak about your academic potential, work ethic, and how you’ve grown as a student. Their insights can provide valuable support to your application.
• Consider Alternative Pathways: Look into bridge programs or transfer options if direct admission seems less likely. These pathways often provide an opportunity to prove your academic capabilities and gain admission at a later stage.

What Makes Georgia Tech Unique?

Georgia Tech, formally known as the Georgia Institute of Technology, stands out as a premier institution for higher education, particularly in the fields of engineering and technology. Situated in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, it offers a unique blend of academic rigor, innovative research opportunities, and a vibrant campus life, making it an attractive choice for students from around the globe.

One of the key aspects that sets Georgia Tech apart is its strong emphasis on research. The university is renowned for its cutting-edge research facilities and programs. This enhances the learning experience and provides students with the opportunity to work on real-world problems, often leading to groundbreaking discoveries and innovations. The collaborative environment at Georgia Tech, where students and faculty work closely, fosters a culture of creativity and invention.

Another distinctive feature of Georgia Tech is its commitment to practical, hands-on learning. Through various programs and initiatives, students are encouraged to apply their classroom knowledge to solve practical problems. This is evident in their co-op programs, internships, and project-based courses, which provide invaluable real-world experience and a competitive edge in the job market.

Furthermore, Georgia Tech’s global outreach and diversity are noteworthy. The university attracts students from all corners of the world, creating a rich, multicultural environment. This diversity enhances the learning experience and prepares students to work in a globalized world.

Lastly, Georgia Tech’s strong alumni network is a testament to its excellence. Graduates of Georgia Tech have gone on to achieve great success in various fields, contributing significantly to society and the world at large. This network not only serves as a source of pride for the institution but also as a valuable resource for current students.

What Does the Georgia Tech Application Look Like?

Applying to Georgia Tech is a comprehensive process that seeks to understand the applicant’s academic abilities, extracurricular involvement, and personal character. The application process is designed to be holistic, ensuring that each applicant is evaluated on various aspects beyond just academic scores.

The Georgia Tech application typically includes the following components:

• Academic Transcripts: These are records of your high school grades and coursework. Georgia Tech looks for students who have excelled in their academic pursuits, particularly in challenging courses relevant to their intended major.
• Standardized Test Scores: Georgia Tech, like many institutions, may require standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT. These scores provide insight into the academic readiness of the applicant.
• Essays: The application essays are a crucial part of the process. They offer a platform for students to express their individuality, motivations, and how they align with Georgia Tech’s values and offerings. The essays should be reflective, well-written, and provide a glimpse into the applicant’s personality and aspirations.
• Letters of Recommendation: Letters from teachers or counselors provide a third-party perspective on the applicant’s academic potential, character, and suitability for Georgia Tech.
• Extracurricular Activities: Georgia Tech values well-rounded individuals. Thus, involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, or other endeavors outside of academic work is considered.
• Interviews: Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, an interview may be part of the application process. This provides an opportunity for personal interaction and further evaluation of the applicant’s fit for the university.
• Supplemental Information: This can include portfolios, research papers, or additional certifications, especially relevant for certain specialized programs.

Georgia Tech’s application process is designed to identify students who will thrive academically and contribute to the campus community in meaningful ways.

Is Georgia Tech a Good School for You?

Deciding if Georgia Tech is the right fit for you depends on several factors, each personal and unique to your educational and career goals. Consider the following aspects:

• Academic Offerings and Strengths: Georgia Tech is renowned for its engineering and technology programs. If your interests lie in these areas, it could be an excellent fit. However, it’s important to explore if the university offers the specific program or major you are interested in.
• Research Opportunities: If you are keen on being involved in cutting-edge research, Georgia Tech’s robust research programs could provide the platform you need.
• Campus Life and Culture: Consider the social and cultural environment of the university. Georgia Tech offers a diverse and active campus life, but it’s important to ensure that it aligns with your preferences and interests.
• Location: Being in Atlanta, Georgia Tech offers a dynamic urban experience. The location should be considered in terms of lifestyle, opportunities, and personal comfort.
• Career Prospects: Georgia Tech has a strong reputation with employers, particularly in engineering and technology fields. Consider how a degree from Georgia Tech aligns with your career aspirations.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Understand the cost of education and the availability of financial aid, scholarships, or work-study programs.
• Fit: Ultimately, the decision should be based on how well Georgia Tech aligns with your academic goals, personality, and plans. Visiting the campus, talking to current students or alumni, and doing thorough research will help in making an informed decision.

Georgia Tech offers a distinctive blend of academic excellence, practical experience, and a vibrant community. Whether it’s the right school for you depends on how well it aligns with your personal and educational objectives.

How Selective is Georgia Tech?

Georgia Institute of Technology, commonly known as Georgia Tech, is one of the leading research universities in the United States, particularly renowned for its engineering and computer science programs. Understanding the selectivity of Georgia Tech is crucial for prospective students as it gives an insight into the competitiveness of the admissions process.

The selectivity of a college is generally measured by its acceptance rate, which is the percentage of applicants who are offered admission. For Georgia Tech, the acceptance rate has been historically low, making it a highly competitive institution. Recent years have seen this rate fluctuate slightly, but it remains indicative of a selective admissions process. The low acceptance rate is partly due to the large number of applications received by the university each year, coupled with the limited number of seats available.

Apart from the acceptance rate, selectivity can also be gauged through the academic credentials of admitted students. Typically, Georgia Tech admits students with high SAT/ACT scores and strong high school GPAs. These academic factors, however, are just one part of the holistic review process that the university employs.

It is important to remember that while selectivity is a useful indicator of competitiveness, it does not necessarily reflect the quality of education or the value of the experience at the university. Georgia Tech’s selectivity highlights its status as a prestigious institution with a strong emphasis on academic excellence.

Should You Apply to Georgia Tech?

Deciding whether to apply to Georgia Tech requires careful consideration of several factors. As an applicant, it is important to assess your academic qualifications, career goals, and personal preferences.

Academic Fit

If you are interested in fields like engineering, computing, and sciences, Georgia Tech offers some of the best programs in these areas. However, it’s crucial to ensure that your academic records align with the university’s standards. If your SAT/ACT scores and GPA match or exceed the average of admitted students, you might stand a good chance in the admissions process.

Career Aspirations

Georgia Tech is known for its strong career services and alumni network, particularly in the tech industry. If you are aiming for a career in STEM fields, the university could provide excellent opportunities for internships, co-op programs, and post-graduation employment.

Campus Life and Culture

Considering the campus culture and location is also important. Georgia Tech, located in Atlanta, offers a vibrant campus life with a diverse student body and numerous extracurricular activities. If you thrive in an environment that is academically rigorous and culturally diverse, Georgia Tech could be a great fit.

Financial Considerations

Understanding the cost of attendance and the availability of financial aid is crucial. Georgia Tech offers various financial aid options, but the overall cost can be a significant factor for many students.

Ultimately, applying to Georgia Tech should be based on a thorough evaluation of how well the university aligns with your academic and career goals, as well as your personal preferences.

How Does Georgia Tech Review Applications?

Georgia Tech employs a holistic review process to evaluate applications. This approach means that the admissions committee looks beyond just academic metrics to get a full picture of each applicant. Here are the key components of Georgia Tech’s application review process:

1. Academic Record

The most significant factor in the review process is the applicant’s academic performance. This includes GPA, the rigor of the high school curriculum, and standardized test scores (if submitted). Georgia Tech looks for students who have challenged themselves with advanced courses and have excelled in them.

2. Extracurricular Involvement

The admissions committee also considers an applicant’s involvement in extracurricular activities. Leadership roles, community service, participation in clubs or sports, and other pursuits can significantly impact an application. Georgia Tech values students who demonstrate a balance between academic prowess and engagement in their community or interests.

The essays are an opportunity for applicants to showcase their personality, motivations, and writing skills. Georgia Tech’s prompts often focus on aspects such as personal growth, intellectual curiosity, and problem-solving abilities. The admissions committee uses essays to understand an applicant’s character and how they might contribute to the campus community.

4. Letters of Recommendation

Recommendations from teachers and counselors provide insights into an applicant’s academic and personal qualities. Georgia Tech considers these letters to gauge a student’s potential for success in a rigorous academic environment.

5. Additional Factors

Diversity of background and experiences is also a significant aspect of the review process. Georgia Tech aims to admit students who bring a variety of perspectives and experiences to the campus, enriching the educational environment for all students.

Georgia Tech’s application review process is comprehensive and considers a wide range of factors. It seeks to identify students who not only excel academically but also show potential to contribute positively to the university community.

Does Georgia Tech Require Interviews?

Georgia Institute of Technology, commonly known as Georgia Tech, is a prestigious institution renowned for its strong emphasis on science and technology. When students apply to colleges like Georgia Tech, they often wonder about the requirements, particularly whether interviews are a part of the admissions process.

At Georgia Tech, interviews are not a standard requirement for the undergraduate admission process. This means that, typically, students applying for undergraduate programs will not need to go through an interview as part of their application. The admissions committee at Georgia Tech assesses applicants based on their academic performance, standardized test scores (if submitted), essays, extracurricular activities, and other application components, but not through personal interviews.

However, it’s important to note that the absence of an interview in the application process does not make getting into Georgia Tech any less competitive. The university is known for its rigorous standards and seeks students who demonstrate excellence in academics and a strong commitment to their field of interest.

What Extracurriculars Do You Need for Georgia Tech?

Extracurricular activities play a significant role in the admissions process at Georgia Tech. While there is no specific set of extracurricular activities that applicants “need” to have, involvement in certain types of activities can strengthen an application.

Georgia Tech values students who show passion, leadership, and dedication in their extracurricular pursuits. This can include a wide range of activities such as sports, clubs, volunteer work, research projects, or part-time jobs. The key is not just participation, but the depth of involvement and the impact you’ve made through these activities.

Applicants who have demonstrated a strong commitment to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) activities might have an advantage, given the technical focus of the university. This could be in the form of participation in science fairs, math clubs, coding competitions, or research projects. However, Georgia Tech also appreciates well-rounded individuals, so engagement in the arts, community service, or leadership roles in various organizations can also be beneficial.

What Should You Write About in Your Personal Statement to Get Into Georgia Tech?

The personal statement is a critical component of your application to Georgia Tech. It’s an opportunity to showcase who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Georgia Tech seeks students who are academically capable and bring unique perspectives and experiences to their campus.

When writing your statement for Georgia Tech, focus on experiences or aspects of your life that have shaped you. It could be a personal challenge you’ve overcome, a significant achievement, or a unique experience that has influenced your academic and career goals. The aim is to provide a glimpse into your personality, your passions, and what drives you.

Be sure to highlight qualities that align with Georgia Tech’s values, such as innovation, leadership, and a commitment to service. Show how your experiences have prepared you for the rigors of a Georgia Tech education and how you plan to contribute to the university community.

It’s also important to be authentic and honest in your writing. Admissions officers can tell when an essay is genuine versus when it’s crafted to tell them what the applicant thinks they want to hear. Authenticity can make your application stand out.

How Do You Write a Georgia Tech Supplemental Essay?

When applying to Georgia Tech, writing a compelling supplemental essay is a crucial step in the admissions process. This essay offers a unique opportunity to showcase your personality, goals, and fit for the institution. To craft an effective Georgia Tech supplemental essay, consider the following steps:

• Understand the Prompt: Read the essay prompt carefully. It usually asks you to explain why you have chosen your particular major and how Georgia Tech will help you achieve your academic and career goals. Understanding the question is key to a relevant response.
• Be Specific: General statements about the university’s reputation or location are not enough. Assess what makes Georgia Tech’s program unique and how it aligns with your academic interests and career aspirations. Mention specific courses, professors, research opportunities, or extracurricular activities that appeal to you.
• Reflect on Your Experiences: Share your experiences, whether in academics, extracurricular activities, or personal projects, that have shaped your interest in your chosen field. Relate these experiences to how you would contribute to and benefit from the Georgia Tech community.
• Show Your Personality: Your essay should reflect who you are. Include personal anecdotes or insights to make your essay engaging and memorable. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so a distinctive voice can make yours stand out.
• Proofread and Edit: Ensure your essay is free of grammatical errors and typos. Ask teachers, mentors, or family members to review your essay for clarity and impact. Feedback can help refine your essay to effectively communicate your message.
• Stay True to Yourself: Write honestly and authentically. Admissions officers seek students who are genuine and self-aware. Authenticity in your essay can leave a lasting impression.

What Enrichment Opportunities Will Help You Get into Georgia Tech?

Georgia Tech looks for students who demonstrate academic excellence and active engagement in enrichment activities. Participating in the following opportunities can strengthen your application:

• STEM Programs: Engage in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs or competitions. Georgia Tech values applicants with a strong foundation in these areas.
• Research Projects: Participate in research projects, especially those in science or technology. These experiences demonstrate your ability to contribute to Georgia Tech’s research-driven environment.
• Leadership Roles: Take on leadership positions in clubs or organizations, particularly those related to your field of interest. Leadership skills are highly valued by Georgia Tech.
• Community Service: Engage in community service projects, especially those that utilize your technical skills. This reflects a commitment to using your knowledge for the greater good.
• Summer Programs: Attend summer programs or camps focused on science and technology. These programs can provide advanced learning opportunities and demonstrate your dedication to your field.
• Internships or Work Experience: Gain practical experience through internships or part-time jobs in your area of interest. Real-world experience can set you apart from other applicants.

Do You Need to Take AP Courses to Get into Georgia Tech?

While Georgia Tech does not explicitly require applicants to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses, they are strongly recommended. AP courses are college-level classes offered in high schools, and they demonstrate a student’s ability to handle challenging coursework, which is indicative of college readiness. Here’s why AP courses can be beneficial:

• Academic Rigor: AP courses show that you’re willing to challenge yourself academically, which is a quality Georgia Tech looks for in applicants.
• College Credit: Scoring well on AP exams can earn you college credit, allowing you to potentially skip introductory courses at Georgia Tech.
• Competitive Edge: Many applicants to Georgia Tech will have taken AP courses. To remain competitive, it’s advisable to enroll in these courses, especially in subjects related to your intended major.
• Skill Development: AP courses help develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success at Georgia Tech.

However, if your school does not offer AP courses, or if you have valid reasons for not taking them, Georgia Tech will consider the context of your educational environment. Excellence within the scope of your school’s offerings is also highly valued.

Does Georgia Tech Accept AP Credit?

Georgia Institute of Technology is a renowned institution that values academic excellence and rigor. A significant aspect of its admissions process is the recognition of Advanced Placement (AP) credits. Students often take AP courses in high school to challenge themselves academically and potentially earn college credit.

Georgia Tech does accept AP credit, acknowledging the hard work of students who have excelled in these advanced courses. The acceptance of AP credits by Georgia Tech is based on the score achieved in the AP exams. Each AP subject has a specific minimum score requirement for the credits to be considered valid at Georgia Tech. For instance, a student might need to score a 4 or 5 in AP Calculus AB to receive credit for a corresponding college-level course.

The benefit of AP credits is substantial. Students with accepted AP credits can often skip introductory courses in college, allowing them to dive into more advanced topics earlier in their academic careers. This can lead to a more enriched learning experience and even facilitate an earlier graduation.

Students can find detailed information about the AP credit acceptance policy on Georgia Tech’s official website or through their admissions office. It is always advisable to verify the latest requirements and policies, as they can occasionally change.

Will Georgia Tech Look at Your Social Media?

In today’s digital age, social media is a significant part of many students’ lives. It’s natural to wonder if Georgia Tech considers social media profiles in its admissions process. Generally, Georgia Tech does not routinely review applicants’ social media accounts as part of the admissions process. Their primary focus is on academic achievements, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.

However, students need to maintain a positive digital footprint. In rare instances, if there are reports of inappropriate or offensive content on a student’s social media, it might be taken into consideration. This is more about ensuring that students uphold the values and ethics expected at Georgia Tech rather than actively searching through applicants’ online profiles.

Students should be mindful of what they post online, not just for college admissions but for future career prospects as well. A responsible approach to social media is to avoid posting anything that you wouldn’t want a college admissions officer or a future employer to see.

Will Visiting Georgia Tech Help You Get In?

A common question among prospective students is whether visiting a college campus can improve their chances of admission . At Georgia Tech, campus visits are not a formal part of the evaluation process for admissions. Visiting the campus does not directly increase your chances of being admitted. Admissions decisions at Georgia Tech are made based on academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, essays, and other application components.

However, visiting Georgia Tech can be beneficial in other ways. It allows students to get a feel for the campus atmosphere, understand the college community, and determine if it is the right fit for them. During such visits, students can gather valuable information about programs, facilities, student life, and resources available at Georgia Tech. This knowledge can be very helpful in writing a more informed and personalized college essay, which is a critical part of the application process.

Applying to Georgia Tech involves understanding its competitive admission process, which includes multiple components such as GPA, standardized test scores, essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities.

It’s crucial to align your application with Georgia Tech’s values and prepare each component thoughtfully to enhance your chances of admission.

The competition for a spot at Georgia Tech is intense, with a low acceptance rate reflecting its high standards. However, don’t let this deter you. Use it as motivation to present the best version of yourself in your application.

Focus on highlighting your strengths, passions, and unique experiences. Remember, every part of your application is an opportunity to showcase your potential and fit for Georgia Tech.

We can help you figure out how to get into Georgia Tech

At AdmissionSight , we specialize in guiding students through the intricacies of college admissions.

Our expert team can help you navigate the Georgia Tech application process, from optimizing your essays and extracurricular profile to preparing for interviews. We understand what Georgia Tech is looking for and can provide tailored support to enhance your application.

Contact us today for a free consultation and take the next step towards your dream of attending Georgia Tech.

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

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How to Get Into Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) Guide

How to get into georgia institute of technology guide – general information.

Georgia Tech is a public research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. The Georgia Tech enrollment is 44,000 students total, with an undergraduate Georgia Tech enrollment of about 17,500.

What we’ll cover in this “How to Get Into Georgia Tech” guide:

• Georgia Tech average GPA
• Optimal Georgia Tech SAT scores
• Georgia Tech application deadline
• Details on Georgia Tech Early Action 
• How to write strong Georgia Tech essays
• Georgia Tech class of 2025 statistics, and more. 

When thinking about how to get into Georgia Tech , make sure each part of your application — your GPA, standardized test scores, and Georgia Tech supplemental essays — is top-notch. This means keeping your grades high enough to meet the Georgia Tech average GPA, studying to ensure strong Georgia Tech SAT scores or ACT scores, and building up your extracurriculars. To boost your chances, you should start preparing for the application process well before the Georgia Tech application deadline. 

Figuring out how to get into Georgia Tech takes strategy. We can help. CollegeAdvisor.com’s network of 300+ Admissions Experts (and former admissions officers) includes graduates from some of the country’s top schools. Want to maximize your Georgia Tech admissions odds?  Create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272. 

How can I get into Georgia Tech?

There’s no magic formula for how to get into Georgia Tech, but this guide will give you ways to improve your odds. Georgia Tech admissions values applicants who have a strong track record of academic excellence. Engineering and the sciences are the core of Georgia Tech’s curriculum. Further, a significant percentage of the Georgia Tech enrollment conducts research while on campus. 

Crafting a profile that goes beyond the Georgia Tech average GPA and Georgia Tech SAT scores is essential, as most of the students who apply meet those thresholds. Your extracurriculars, Georgia Tech essays, and decision to apply for the Georgia Tech Early Action deadline can help you set yourself apart from other students. If you want to know how to get into Georgia Tech, also make sure you show Georgia Tech admissions who you are outside of the classroom.

Is Georgia Tech hard to get into?

Earning acceptance into one of Georgia Tech’s six colleges is challenging. When making your plan for how to get into Georgia Tech, have an idea of the academic benchmarks such as the Georgia Tech average GPA and Georgia Tech SAT scores. 

In the class of 2024, the middle 50% range of Georgia Tech SAT scores is 1380-1520 , and 31-35 for the ACT. The range of Georgia Tech SAT scores for math is higher than verbal. More than 90% of the Georgia Tech enrollment were in the top 10% of their high school graduating class. Since Georgia Tech admissions requires standardized test scores for application cycles starting in 2022, allow time for this in your “how to get into Georgia Tech” strategy.

Because Georgia Tech is a harder school to get into, you may want to consider Georgia Tech Early Action to increase your admissions odds. 

What GPA do you need to get into Georgia Tech?

When planning how to get into Georgia Tech, make sure you know the Georgia Tech enrollment statistics, especially the Georgia Tech average GPA.  

The Georgia Tech average GPA of incoming first-year students is 4.1 . Approximately 85% of students had a GPA of 4.0. 

The Georgia Tech average GPA is high because admitted students succeed in rigorous courses in high school. Georgia Tech admissions takes academic preparation very seriously when evaluating applicants. They want to see “how you stretched and challenged yourself relative to the curriculum that was available at your school.” So, as you work out how to get into Georgia Tech, choose a schedule of courses that challenge you. Ensure you’re studying hard for success in these classes long before the Georgia Tech application deadline.  

In this video , a Georgia Tech admissions counselor explains the importance of the Georgia Tech average GPA.  

What does the Georgia Tech application include?

The first step in your plan for how to get into Georgia Tech is completing the Common Application before the Georgia Tech application deadline. For tips on how to ace the Common App, read this article . 

Georgia Tech admissions requires the following materials for your application:

• The Common App (this includes your personal essay and Georgia Tech essays)
• Official high school transcript with 9-12th courses and 9-11th grades
• Self-reported or official Georgia Tech SAT scores or ACT scores
• Guidance counselor recommendation
• Teacher recommendation(s)

Make sure you submit your application by the Georgia Tech application deadline:

• Georgia Tech Early Action for in-state students: October 18
• Georgia Tech Early Action for non-Georgia students: November 1  
• Regular Decision: January 5

Georgia Tech admissions requires Georgia Tech SAT scores or ACT scores as part of your application. They use a holistic review process that includes Georgia Tech SAT scores and ACT scores.

Later in this “How to get into Georgia Tech” guide, we’ll explain parts of the application like the Georgia Tech essays in more depth. 

What extracurriculars do I need for Georgia Tech?

If you want to know how to get into Georgia Tech, start by asking yourself a few questions. What makes you unique? How do you pursue your passions? 

There is no cookie-cutter Georgia Tech student. The Georgia Tech admissions team wants the Georgia Tech enrollment to have varied backgrounds, interests, and experiences. 

Ultimately, there’s no single answer to how to get into Georgia Tech. Choosing one extracurricular over another will not help you make the Georgia Tech enrollment. However, your extracurriculars are a big part of what makes you stand out. So work hard and show your passion. Get started early in high school, well in advance of the Georgia Tech application deadline, especially if you are applying to Georgia Tech Early Action.

When thinking about how to get into Georgia Tech, it’s great to focus on the Georgia Tech average GPA, Georgia Tech SAT scores, and Georgia Tech essays. But you must also set aside some time to think about the traits Georgia Tech admissions will want to see in the extracurricular part of your application.

These traits include:

• Self-motivation
• Personal responsibility
• Compassion for others
• Entrepreneurism
• Intellectual curiosity

The short answer to how to get into Georgia Tech is: authenticity. The Georgia Tech admissions office will be impressed by a candidate profile that shows you explore your passions, serve, lead others, and get involved in the community. 

Read more about how to showcase your extracurriculars in your application here . To learn more about developing the depth and breadth of your extracurricular activities, watch this webinar .

What is the acceptance rate at Georgia Tech?

When crafting your “how to get into Georgia Tech” strategy, keep in mind it is a competitive school, and its acceptance rate reflects that.

Georgia Tech is #38 in the U.S. News list of National Universities and #4 on the U.S. News list of Undergraduate Engineering Programs . The Georgia Tech acceptance rate is 18% . About 45,300 students applied to become part of the 2021 Georgia Tech enrollment, and 8105 were accepted. Learn more about how to interpret this acceptance rate here.   

Note that 18% is the rate for each Georgia Tech application deadline combined. The school doesn’t say whether Georgia Tech Early Action students have a better chance of acceptance. That said, given what we know about Early Action, applying Georgia Tech Early Action will probably improve your odds.  

For help deciding whether Georgia Tech Early Action is right for you, check out this article . 

Above all, don’t focus too much on rankings or acceptance rates, as they are out of your control. Instead, focus on your Georgia Tech essays, Georgia Tech SAT scores, and choosing a Georgia Tech application deadline.

Does Georgia Tech offer interviews?

You don’t need to include an interview in your plan for how to get into Georgia Tech—the admissions team doesn’t offer them. However, non-native English speakers can take part in an optional interview to demonstrate their English proficiency. Be sure to take and submit this before the Georgia Tech application deadline for documents !

Finally, remember that you can show your accomplishments in your Georgia Tech essays. 

How do I write a Georgia Tech essay?

Georgia admissions requires all students to submit Georgia Tech essays before the Georgia Tech application deadline. So make sure this is part of your “how to get into Georgia Tech” plan. Note that you must submit Georgia Tech essays in addition to the Common App essay.  

Georgia Tech Short-Answer Question (max 300 words): Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech?

Georgia Tech essays are judged for content and quality, so thoroughly revise them before you submit your application. Brainstorm and draft the Georgia Tech essays well in advance of your Georgia Tech application deadline so you don’t feel rushed. This is particularly important if you are applying by the Georgia Tech Early Action deadline.

According to the school’s website , strong Georgia Tech essays:

• Demonstrate authenticity and self-awareness
• Are thoughtful
• Display attention to topic, style, and grammar
• Show that a student has thought about why Georgia Tech

Effective Georgia Tech essays take a variety of approaches to answering the prompt. However, they have certain elements in common. They are all specific and personal, and paint a clear picture of how the applicant would succeed at Georgia Tech and beyond. 

For advice on answering this prompt, read what the university says about Georgia Tech essays . In addition, you’ll find this essay guide helpful.

How does Georgia Tech review applications?

Georgia Tech admissions is transparent about its procedures for admitting students. This helps you create an effective strategy for how to get into Georgia Tech. 

Understanding the values and mission of the university can help you identify where you align with the school. Read more about how Georgia Tech thinks about whether you’re a good fit here . 

The Georgia Tech 2020-2021 Common Data Set includes information such as the average Georgia Tech SAT scores, Georgia Tech average GPA, Georgia Tech enrollment, and other factors in the process. This can help you understand how to get into Georgia Tech. 

According to Georgia Tech’s 2020–21 Common Data Set, the college ranks these factors as “very important:”

• The rigor of secondary school record
• Academic GPA
• Application Essay
• Extracurricular activities
• Character/personal qualities
• Volunteer Work
• Work experience
• Level of applicant’s interest

The following factors are ranked as “important:”

• Standardized test scores
• Geographical residence
• State residency

Clearly, academic achievement is highly valued in the Georgia Tech admissions process. Regardless of the Georgia Tech average GPA, average Georgia Tech SAT scores, or acceptance rate, you must strive to succeed in each of your courses. 

Will Georgia Tech review my social media?

As you think about how to get into Georgia Tech, you may worry about how your social media presence will affect your Georgia Tech admissions odds. Georgia Tech receives tens of thousands of applications each year, so readers usually don’t have the time to look at your accounts.

However, you shouldn’t post offensive content on social media regardless. Even beyond the college application process, you should use social media responsibly . 

Our final recommendation is to play it safe. Georgia Tech likely won’t read your Twitter or check your Instagram, but there’s always an outside chance.

Is Georgia Tech a good school for me?

When determining how to get into Georgia Tech, think about it as a two-way street. You must earn admission, but you also must decide if Georgia Tech is the school for you. If the school is on your list, you may do research to learn about the Georgia Tech average GPA, Georgia Tech SAT scores, Georgia Tech enrollment, and Georgia Tech application deadlines. However, Georgia Tech admissions urges you to think beyond the numbers. 

Consider which of their over 100 majors you intend to study. Though it is possible, it can be difficult to change your major, particularly for some of Georgia Tech’s more competitive majors—computer science, industrial and systems engineering, and mechanical engineering. 

In addition, subscribe to Georgia Tech’s YouTube channel , follow Georgia Tech admissions office on social media, attend webinars , and visit campus to learn as much as you can before deciding to apply. 

Additional tips to get into Georgia Tech

Build your profile.

Your candidate profile is a part of how to beat the low Georgia Tech acceptance rate. It’s the narrative you tell through your extracurriculars, service, and projects. This shows Georgia Tech who you are and what’s important to you. 

Prepare, prepare, prepare

Don’t wait to craft your “how to get into Georgia Tech” strategy until just before the Georgia Tech application deadline. If you want to be part of the Georgia Tech enrollment, you should have a strong academic record and get involved in activities that are important to you early in high school. 

No Georgia Tech average GPA or Georgia Tech SAT scores will assure you a spot in the next incoming class. However, don’t worry about what Georgia Tech wants to see or what others’ applications include. Submit the strongest application you can, and consider Georgia Tech Early Action if you are serious about being part of the Georgia Tech enrollment. Good luck!

This guide was written by  Caroline Marapese , Notre Dame ’22. If you want to know how to get into Georgia Tech, we’ve got you covered. CollegeAdvisor.com’s network of 300+ Admissions Experts (and former admissions officers) includes graduates from some of the country’s top schools. Create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, georgia tech essay tips needed.

Hey y'all! I'm applying to Georgia Tech and I want to make my essay as good as possible. Anyone got tips or advice on what to focus on while writing the essay? Thanks in advance!

Hey there! Georgia Tech is a great school to apply to. When working on your essay, you might want to emphasize your passion for the STEM field or a specific major you're applying to. Make sure you demonstrate a strong understanding of your major of choice and how Georgia Tech can help you achieve your goals.

Try to be specific about what aspects of Georgia Tech you find appealing, such as particular research opportunities, clubs, or professors. It's also helpful to connect your personal background, experiences, and motivations with your future plans at the university. This shows that you've done your research on the school and know exactly why it's a good fit for you.

Most importantly, be authentic and true to yourself in your writing. Admissions officers want to get to know you as an individual, so share your unique experiences and perspectives. Avoid cliches and focus on providing a clear narrative that showcases your personality.

Good luck with your essay, and I hope your application process goes smoothly!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

Georgia Tech 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Georgia tech 2023-24 application essay question explanations.

The Requirements: Why

Supplemental Essay Type(s): 1  essay of 300 words

Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech? (50-300 words)  

Admissions wants to know how you plan on using a Georgia Tech education to accomplish your career goals. Some schools ask students why they want to attend or why they like different offerings, but Georgia Tech isn’t messing around. They’re asking you to specifically speak about academics here, so don’t waste your time researching the dining halls. Why study here? Why study this subject? And finally, why study this subject at Georgia Tech, specifically? Spend some time learning about Georgia Tech’s majors, classes, professors, resources, and alumni network. Pore over the website for the department you’re interested in and soak up information about faculty, research, guest speakers, and special opportunities for undergraduates. Jot down the details that appeal to you and by the end of your research session, you’ll have everything you need to plead your case. Connect the school’s offerings to your personal interests and goals and you will demonstrate your fit and commitment to the school. What career path do you see for yourself? Is Georgia Tech known for producing successful graduates in that department? The more details you can provide, the better.

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Georgia Tech Admission Blog

Tag: college essays, the basics of college admission: part 3.

It’s good to know your limits. It’s good to understand when the best thing to do is step aside and let someone else handle things. It’s also hard to miss those moments when family members communicate these things gently (but clearly) in statements such as:

• “Just hand me the remote. I’ll show you how to find that.”
• “I think we are good to go on virtual school today. It might be better if you go into the office.”
• “That’s not an aerial. That’s not even a somersault. Watch this!”

This also happens to me at work. I’m fortunate to have an incredibly talented team of colleagues and friends around me. So, when it comes to communication strategy, data analysis, file review training, technology enhancements, and much more, I’ve learned to let the experts lead.

In that spirit, I’m cutting this intro short so you can hear directly from my insightful and experienced colleagues about key elements of your college admission and application experience.

Activities and Contribution to Community

Ellery Kirkconnell (Senior Admission Counselor) helps you understand what admission counselors are really looking for when they read and discuss your involvement, influence, and impact outside of the classroom.

Top Tips: Focus on what you’ve contributed to your school, community, or family. This section is critical, so don’t short sell your involvement or rely on your strong academic background. “Tell us more” is the rule of thumb!

Listen For: Ellery’s crystal ball predictions on how this section will be reviewed in light of Covid-19.

Key Quote: “Impact does not necessarily mean you were a president of an organization… elected official… or the captain of a sports team.”

Further Reading Viewing: Ellery’s YouTube clip on C2C.

Letters of Recommendation

Kathleen Voss (East Coast Admission Director) provides key tips for students as they consider who to ask for letters of recommendation. She also provides helpful insight into what college admission readers are (and are not) looking for when they come to this section of applications.

Top Tips:  Good recommendations showcase your character/compliment your story. Help your recommenders help you by giving them the time/direction/info they need to do their best job.  Only send the number of recs any particular college asks you to submit.

Listen For:  The Starbucks Test (Honorable mention- Jerry McGuire hat tip).

Key Quote: “You are the book. And this is the person reviewing the book.”

Further Reading:    Big Future’s recs on recs. Insight from the Georgia Tech of Boston, aka MIT.

The Additional Information Section

Katie Mattli (Senior Assistant Director) explains what this section is (and what it’s not), as well as what readers are really looking for when they come to this section.

Top Tips: It’s okay to leave this section blank. It’s not an additional essay or continuation of your resume and extra-curriculars. It’s an opportunity to include critical details of your story that you’ve not been able to include elsewhere. Google “the art of brevity.”

Listen For: Katie’s patented “two-part method” for approaching this section.

Key Quote: “I am a human being- and I’m trying to understand you as a human being.”

Further Reading: The Write Life.

That’s it for the real wisdom and helpful advice. In other news, here’s one more.

College Essays and Supplemental Writing

Rick Clark (Director of Undergraduate Admission) walks students through how to get started, possible topics to consider, and what “your voice” really means. He also touches on supplemental essays for colleges and walks you through very tangible tips for making your writing better.

Top Tips:   Voice record your essay and listen back for ways to improve. Your application is a story: how can your essay fill in gaps and round out the most complete picture of you? Have an adult who does not know you very well read your essays to simulate the experience and takeaways of an admission counselor.

Listen For:  Personal secrets and confessions.

Key Quote: “Essays should be personal and detailed. The worst essays are vanilla. They’re broad and have a bunch of multi-syllabic words.”  

Further Reading:  Blogger, coach, author, and overall good person, Ethan Sawyer, aka  The College Essay Guy. Five Practical Tips for Writing for Colleges.

Thanks for reading—and thanks for listening. We will be wrapping up our mini-series, “The Basics of College Admission,” in the next month with episodes including financial aid, interviews, transfer admission, and more.

At this point, we’ve reached about 18,000 listeners on The College Admission Brief podcast. Admittedly, my mom and kids have a few accounts I created which is inflating those stats, but in general we’re pleased and truly appreciative. The annual podcast fee just hit my credit card, so we’ll definitely continue to be around and want to make this as helpful as possible as you navigate your admission experience.

If there is topic you think we missed and want us to cover, please reach out to @clark2college or @gtadmission .

Thanks for subscribing or listening  on  iTunes ,  Spotify , and  Spreaker .

If you would like to subscribe to receive blog entries when they post, please enter your email address in the “subscribe” box at the top of the page. We welcome comments and feedback at @gtadmission on Twitter.

To Answer or Not To Answer the College Admission Covid-19 Question

My cousin comes to our house each Wednesday afternoon to tutor our kids. Not only is it always good to see her, because she’s family and has the biggest smile and most genuinely cheerful spirit of anyone I know, but it’s also a helpful reminder of the day.

“Kenzie’s here!!” Okay. Must be Wednesday.

When Covid really hit the U.S. in mid-March, life got wonky for us all. One of my friends has decided it’s actually still March—in this case March 182. You don’t have to look far on the internet, social media, or the national news to be reminded that the last five months have varied widely based on who you are, where you live, your family’s health/wealth, school response, and community impact. Personally, I have friends who have lost their business and were forced to sell their house as a result. I know people who have gotten sick and recovered, as well as several who have contracted the virus and died. However, I also have friends who have received promotions, new jobs, and are in businesses that are thriving as a direct result of the pandemic.

So not only is it logical, but it’s also critical that The Common Application has provided an opportunity for students to respond to a question directly related to Covid-19.

This optional question is accompanied by an FAQ to assist students if they choose to respond:

Community disruptions such as Covid-19 and natural disasters can have deep and long-lasting impacts. If you need it, this space is yours to describe those impacts. Colleges care about the effects on your health and well-being, safety, family circumstances, future plans, and education, including access to reliable technology and quiet study spaces.

• Do you wish to share anything on this topic? Y/N
• Please use this space to describe how these events have impacted you.

Here are three basic tips on how to approach this question/section.

• Optional means optional .

You’ve likely heard this statement related to standardized testing this year, but it applies here too.

This is the question you need to ask yourself:

Do I have something additional I want them to know about my last six months in particular that I’ve not been able to express elsewhere?

If the answer is Yes , this section is available to you. If No, click the box and move on.

We use the title “admission reader” intentionally. They read. Think of your application as a story.

Chapter 1- You complete the demographic information, including name, gender, high school, age, family information, etc.

Chapter 2- You provide a transcript and your counselor sends us a school report so we understand your academic background, choices, and performance.

Chapter 3- You tell us on your Activities section what you chose to invest your time in outside the classroom.

Chapter 4- You write an essay and answer short answer questions for colleges to help them hear you and see you— think of writing like coloring in an otherwise black and white outline.

Okay. Are you satisfied ? Do you feel like your story has been told ? If not, what did you miss (I had I bet with my daughter that I could work in at least three Hamilton references on this blog)?

If there is more to share, you need to determine whether to include that in the “Additional Information” section or in the Covid response piece. Again, that will be dictated based on timing. If what you want a reader to know is acute and was triggered by the pandemic, this question is for you. If the circumstance is more broad and protracted, likely it best fits in the Additional Information section.

Please do not overthink this. We’ve already gotten way too many calls and emails about this question. I’m willing to put money on these two statements at any college around the country:

First, if you put something down that a reader does not think is relevant, they’re just going to move on. It’s not going to hurt you and it’s not going to “keep you from being admitted.”

Second, imagine the most dramatic, gut wrenching, tear jerking, and unbelievable scenario you can describe in 250 words. Even that… yes, even that, is not going to get anyone in. No reader is going to say, “Hey. This kid has been making C’s and D’s since 9 th grade, has been expelled three times, and put down “Torments Cats” as their only activity. BUT…check out this Covid response! I really think we should admit them!”

Unfortunately, I was kicked out of the Cub Scouts, so I don’t know a special sign that means “Trust me.” Honestly, I wish someone would develop an emoji that equates to: “I’m not BS’ing you here,” because if I had that, I’d put about nine of them here at the close. In the absence of that, I’ll just trust you are a logical, smart, and reasonable person. I mean you are reading this blog after all, #amirite?

Five Practical Tips for Writing for Colleges

On Monday, I gave the same 30-minute presentation five times. It was a challenge on several levels. First, the technology platform did not allow me to see the participants when I was sharing my screen, which meant no head nods indicating they were tracking with me/still awake. Second, the school placed all students on mute, so unlike in-person sessions, nobody was laughing, “uh-huh-ing,” or asking for clarification along the way. Third, the chat feature was not viewable during the presentation, so I had no idea if students were asking questions, leaving comments, or making snide remarks as I talked. And lastly, it was the same presentation. Five times. For 30 minutes each.

That’s right. I went back-to-back-to-belly (LUNCH) back-to-back talking to my computer screen about “Writing for Colleges.” Brutal. Oh… and did I mention it was a Monday? BRU-TAL!

As I was eating my microwave burrito during the lunch break, I tweaked my presentation a bit– and then I did so again after the fifth   time. In his book Outliers , Malcolm Gladwell argues you need 10,000 hours to become “really good” at something. However, that was the pre-Covid world. Now the standard is presenting on the same topic five times in a three-hour period to an unfeeling, unresponsive computer screen.

Yep. The next time someone asks me to do that, I will be ready. I won’t agree to it, of course (did I mention it was BRU-TAL?), but at least I can now pull some images, stick with a theme of five , and share part of what I talked about with those muted, invisible students on Monday (Monday!).

A few weeks ago, I gave some of our best all-time advice about writing essays. Those blogs speak to who is reading; the fact that there is no perfect essay topic; and how to prepare and approach your essay. If you want philosophy and perspective, read that blog. This is the nitty gritty. NO sugar coating. Do these things or perish.

At many colleges and scholarship programs this is commonly the first line in the rubric for grading or scoring your writing, “Does the student answer the question?” Don’t start in a hole. Just because you wrote a paper three weeks ago of the same length for your history class and got an A, does not mean you CTRL+C and paste that thing into your Common App. Answer the freakin’ question.

2. Get to the point. Your first sentence matters. Admission readers start with you. They are naturally curious. They open every application and essay hoping it is good. Your job is to keep them with you.

The first sentence of every paragraph matters. Many readers skim. Don’t you? If you’d been reading 30-50 essays a day for weeks on end, you’d want some punch in the first line too, right? You’d want the first paragraph to have detail and be specific and lead you into the rest of the essay too, right? See, these people aren’t so different from you. Don’t bury the lead or waste a bunch of time and words when you have so few for most of these prompts. Get to the point.

3. Print it out.   Let’s be honest. We’ve all sent a text or an email with a misspelled word or two put words in the wrong order (see what I did there?). Sometimes we look at a computer screen for so long that our writing sounds correct in our heads, because we know what we meant to say.

After your first draft, and again before you submit your application, print out your essays and short answer questions. You will see things, catch things, and improve things as a result. Trust me. Print it out.

Keep reading and listening to it until you are satisfied. This is your best simulation of how an admission reader will hear your voice in your writing. Does this sound a little awkward and uncomfortable? I’m sorry. Try presenting the same 30-minute session five times in three hours and we can talk about awkward and uncomfortable. Didn’t we already establish that awkward and uncomfortable are two key steps on the path toward improvement? Read it aloud.

So after you have done those, turn it in and move on with your life. You cannot control exactly how your essay is received. You cannot be assured it will be the best writing they read all year or “the thing” that gets you in, but you can be assured these five tips will make it better.  Not convinced? Try reading this all over again four more times.

The Event Planner’s Guide to a College Application

This week we welcome Associate Director for Guest Experience,  Andrew Cohen , to the blog. Welcome, Andrew!

As the leader of Georgia Tech’s campus visits team, part of my role is to plan and execute our daily visit program, open houses and events.  I love the thrill of event planning – from the initial conversations about the vision of the event to seeing it all come together.  Being a professional event planner, I often find my event planning skills and thinking spill over into my personal life… just ask my friends when it comes to making plans… everything is a production!

Event planning is much like preparing to submit a college application.  Everything leads up to the moment you press the submit button.  Like an event, there are multiple people involved in this process, like your college counselor and parents. There are also times when things do not go according to plan, and you must be prepared for these situations.  As you work on your college application, here are some helpful event planning tips to help you stay organized and be prepared to hit that submit button.

Understand the Bigger Picture

When planning events, it is crucial to understand the big picture.  Sometimes we get so caught up in our to-do list that we forget we need to take a step back.  This week we are hosting multiple events in a short amount of time.  This requires me to understand the impact different to-do list items have on other people assisting with the event, not to mention the event’s overall success.  For example, although we have several events this week, we also must think long term as space reservations become available for next year.  If we do not reserve these spaces now, we will face challenges when hosting events next year. It’s hard to think about a year from now when there’s something else in the immediate future.

When it comes to preparing your college application, it is essential to understand the bigger picture.  You will need assistance from others, so it is important to think about their schedules and what else they might have on their plate.  Teachers and college counselors are happy to help with your college application, but you need to understand what else is on their plate and remember they are helping multiple students, not just you.

Understanding when a college needs your high school transcript will help you know when you need to request this from your college counselor.  You cannot expect them to drop what they are doing to submit your transcript the second you ask.  They are submitting transcripts for many students to multiple schools.  Putting your request in well in advance is necessary to ensure they are all delivered in a timely manner.  (This also goes for teacher recommendations, so make sure to give them plenty of time to write and submit the letter).

Proofread… Proofread… Proofread!

When we host a large open house event, we have multiple sessions, in multiple locations, with many different presenters.  These sessions and their locations are all listed on a program for guests to use to navigate the event.  We have a separate list of spaces we have reserved for the event, and another spreadsheet listing all the sessions, locations, and names of presenters.  For an event to run seamlessly, we must be sure all these different lists and spreadsheets match what is listed on the program given to our guests.

If we didn’t carefully proofread, anything could happen at the event.  We could be sending guests to a room we do not actually have reserved.  Or maybe a faculty member could show up to the wrong building or room, maybe even at the wrong time!

Whenever I review an event program, I always proofread by crosschecking these additional lists/spreadsheets.  I must be sure all the times and locations are correctly listed on all of them and be sure a presenter has been secured for each presentation.

When finishing your college application, you need to proofread!  Yes, I know you have probably read your essay 100 times, but one last thorough read is worth the effort!  I always print copies of my event programs to review, and you should do the same with your application.  I know it’s not the most environmentally friendly option, but it will help with that final review (plus, that’s why recycling exists!). A final proofread is your chance to be sure all your application details make sense and show up correctly.  After every application deadline, our Communications Center receives hundreds of calls and emails about minor errors on an application (which we cannot update).  I bet many of these could be avoided by printing out your application and reviewing it one final time from start to finish (and ask someone else to read it too!)

Have a Rain Plan

Over the past year the weather has not been in our favor.  We can plan an awesome event that runs smoothly, but the one thing out of our control is the weather!  Torrential downpours can obviously affect our event and we must be prepared for these situations.  This might mean we pre-order rain ponchos for our guests, or we make last-minute changes to the program to keep guests inside a bit more.

When submitting your college application, you will encounter hiccups and issues.  Many of our early action applicants encountered a curveball this year when they logged into Common App and received a message (in bold red letters) that the deadline had already passed. The deadline had not passed, and students could still submit their applications. But this situation could have been avoided by submitting your application a few days (or a week) before the deadline!  Building extra days into your timeline allows for extra time should there be an issue with the processing of your application or application fee.  Giving yourself a few days helps you avoid panic when you run into an issue at 11:59 p.m. prior to the deadline. (Please note… Admission Offices are not open at that hour and we will not respond to emails/calls until the next day).

As you continue to work on your college application, build a to-do list, similar to the one I have sitting on my desk as we get ready to host a number of events over the next week (bonus tip: when you complete an item/task, it feels great to cross that item off the list!).  As we are busy working on putting the finishing touches on our events, you can do the same with your applications.

Andrew Cohen  joined Georgia Tech in 2018 and currently oversees the guest experience for all Undergraduate Admission visitors. His love for providing visitors with informative, authentic and personal experiences started as a student tour guide at his alma mater, Ithaca College. Andrew’s passion for the visit experience has lead him to his involvement in the  Collegiate Information and Visitor Services Association , where he currently services as the Treasurer on their executive board.

If you would like to subscribe to receive blog entries when they post, please enter your email address in the “subscribe” box at the top of the page. We welcome comments and feedback at  @gtadmission  on Twitter.

A Parents Guide to the College Admission Essay

My son started with Taekwondo when he was five. A few weeks ago, he was invited to test for his black belt. It’s a big accomplishment and he’s definitely excited. My wife and I are proud of him (and honestly kind of proud of ourselves too- that’s lot of driving, watching, and paying over the past six years).

Before a student can officially participate in the test, there are two final assignments to qualify.

One- you must build a carrying case for an egg and carry it around without breaking it for the week prior to the exam.

Two- In order to receive said egg, you must write a 3-5-page essay about your journey to this point, lessons learned, and how Taekwondo has impacted your life.

Now, I’ve seen him spar against black belts and get knocked down pretty hard numerous times. I’ve seen him get verbally lambasted by the master in front of the entire class and on-looking parents. He’s twisted ankles and bruised ribs along the way. But nothing has made me question whether or not he can actually achieve this more than the 3-5-page essay assignment.

While he has seen friends test for their black belts in the past, somehow this facet of the process escaped him too. “3 pages?!” he said exasperated and then went rolling onto the couch and smothering himself with throw blankets and pillows. “Oh… my…. gosh!” he said with a mix of desperation and exasperation.

As he continued muttering incoherently, my wife looked at me with her head slightly tilted, nodded in his direction and mouthed, “Have fun with that…” (I mouthed something back, but this is a PG-ish blog, so I’m leaving that out.)

If you are the parent of a senior, you may have experienced some of this same joint angst in recent weeks or months. The likelihood is that with more deadlines coming up for colleges, it’s not quite over either. Sorry to broach this if you were having an otherwise carefree and blissful day (please go immediately back to sipping your chamomile and mindfulness practices after you’ve read this).

Whether it be for college, Taekwondo, scholarships, job interviews, etc., as parents we simply want our kids to meet deadlines, write well, put their best foot forward, and not procrastinate. We know we should not do the work for them, but it is admittedly tempting.

Before you lose your mind in or snatch their laptop in frustration and begin writing or re-writing your daughter’s or son’s essay, I want to give you three tips to help them improve their essay and get it done, and then two others to help you keep perspective and sanity.

TIPS FOR STUDENTS

Have them voice record. My son had literally no idea where to start. The mere mention of three pages sent him tumbling over furniture and burying himself in a mixture of fleece and wool (not really the stuff of black belts, but I did not mention that to him at the time).

Whether they have not started on their essay, are merely brainstorming, or if they have been looking at a blinking cursor for the last three days, verbalizing their thoughts both changes and improves their writing. Suggest they grab their phone and simply get ideas out. This is not supposed to be perfect. Just words, phrases, quick sentences. Totally fine if they are not in a particular order or connected with perfect conjunctions or transition words. Just start expressing. Note : This is also helpful when they are done (or think they are done). We have all read an email or report we’ve written and thought it made perfect sense. Then, after hitting send, we realize we’ve left out a word or transposed two. As we know from reading books out loud to kids, there is great power in reading aloud. Suggest that before hitting submit, they print their essay out and actually read it again out loud.

Suggest they move around. In most cases, students are using mobile devices to apply—laptop, IPad, etc. If they’ve come into the kitchen eight times for snacks over a 47-minute period, you can officially diagnose them with writer’s block (citation: Dr. George P. Burdell, 1885).  You’ll need to find your moment, but encourage them to change locations. Go out on the porch. Head to a coffee shop. Find a table at the local park. Change of scenery does us all good. Charge the device and go.

Tell them to be specific. Many admission readers are reviewing between 30 and 50 essays a day. At Georgia Tech right now, we have 22,000 Early Action apps to consider before mid-January. That is a lot of different students, situations, lives, and stories. Think about the last time you watched American Ninja Warrior or the Bachelor (insert your show of choice here where multiple people are introduced). What helps us remember who is who? Specifics. We remember the guy from Indiana who grew up boxing with his cousin. We can vividly recall the picture they flashed on the screen of the barn with the Sharpie stenciled sign behind their makeshift ring. Why? Because it is specific. One of the best ways you can help your son/daughter write a “good” essay is by insuring that it is specific and unique to them. This is what admission folks mean when they say, “We just want to hear their voice…” or “tell us about your passions…”

Initially, I asked my son to simply type out what he wanted to say. Here are three verbatim sentences he wrote (and when I say verbatim, I mean I literally copied and pasted): Taekwondo has not always been easy. There have been times that I have wanted to quit. I like sparring.

He’s eleven. I get it. So after I read his first draft (which took him about thirty minutes to come up with and only included about four other sentences), we went for a walk. I brought my phone and just asked him a bunch of questions. Anytime he gave me something general (see above), I asked him to tell me a story: When did you want to quit? Who do you like sparring with and tell me about a specific time- what kicks and punches did you use, etc.? I understand that you are likely not going to be strolling your neighborhood asking your 17-year-old these types of questions, but the concept is the same. Be specific. Give details.

Parents are often tempted to re-write or edit essays by inserting multi-syllabic words or focusing on the transition from one paragraph to the next. Those suggestions are not entirely unhelpful. But what a reader is looking for is detail. Put yourself in the reader’s shoes. They have already read 37 other essays that day. Daylight savings has kicked in and it’s cloudy outside. They just had their 2 p.m. coffee and are thinking about the text they just got asking if they can swing by the grocery store on the way home later.

Tell them a story. Be specific. Be memorable. “Taekwondo has not always been easy”…not memorable.

TIPS FOR PARENTS

It’s a thing. But it’s not the only thing. Yes, colleges require essays. They read them. They matter. Yes, readers want them to be good. They score them. They make notes and bring the subject and insight gained from essay up in committee. They are expecting them to be grammatically sound and flow well. However, the truth is they matter less than most students/parents think. For most schools if a student is solid inside the classroom, involved and impacting people outside the classroom, the essay is not going to be the tipping point. Decisions on a student like that are far more influenced by supply and demand and institutional priorities (where you are from, what you want to study, what the school is trying to increase or grow or achieve in their community) than an essay.

You’ll read on Reddit or see the video of a student on YouTube say, “Yea. I had seven APs and did well on my SATs, but I think it was really my essay that got me in.” No it wasn’t. That student was admitted because she had chosen rigorous courses and done well, had an impact on people outside the classroom in high school, and wrote an essay that was specific and (to use a very precise term here) not bad.

Similarly, my son’s essay for Taekwondo matters. His master is going to read it. It needs to not suck. But as long as he’s put solid effort and thought into it, the decision on whether or not he receives his black belt is going to come down to his performance and other factors (like that stinking egg).

Now, I understand you can read this one of two ways. A- What a relief! My daughter/son just needs to be specific and basically not write a bad essay. B- That is a bunch of crap. This is the magic bullet and everything hinges on it.

Admittedly, I am writing this to give you some solace. But I’m not going to lie to you. (Hint: The answer is A).

Go off speed. Earlier this week I had the opportunity to participate in a Facebook Live interview with Grown and Flown (which is a great organization that produces a ton of good content for parents). At the end, for some reason my internet connection cut out. The question I was unable to answer was essentially, “What do parents do when their son/daughter has not finished their essay. Or when deadlines to schools are approaching and it feels like everything hangs in the balance?” Should you just finish it for them? Should you “make them” apply to two more schools or that one in particular. How do you motivate them to just get it done for God’s sake?!!

Maybe I’m being influenced by what I thought was a riveting World Series, but my answer is to throw an off speed pitch. The truth is that there is never a good time to have this conversation. If you bring it up again, things are going to go south quick. There is never going to be a “right time” or “right place.” So instead, I’m encouraging you to write also. Yes, it’s old school. Pick up a pen and piece of paper and write them a letter. This does not have to be an epistle. Simple is always best. Just remind them that you love them. Tell them you are proud of them and concerned because they have worked hard and deserve to put their best foot forward, i.e. you want them to succeed. Let them know you are there to help, but know you won’t be next year when they’re at school. And then have a glass of wine, go for a walk, i.e. let it go.

Tough for everyone but the truth is that the admission process is a necessary time for parents to also realize that kids will need to do their work, manage their time, and fight their own battles at college very soon- and certainly in life beyond. Put it down on paper. Find a good envelope and leave it for them to read on their own time and terms. Then, to reiterate, wine and a walk—very important.

What are your chances of acceptance?

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Extracurriculars.

How to Get Into Georgia Tech: Admissions Stats + Tips

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What’s Covered:

How hard is it to get into georgia tech, average academic profile of accepted georgia tech college students, what is georgia tech looking for, how to improve your chances of getting into georgia tech.

The Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) is a public research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. Georgia Tech is ranked within the top ten public universities in the U.S., and the college’s research plays a critical role in the Georgia Research Alliance, which impacts Georgia’s economic development strategy.

Georgia Tech offers over 100 undergraduate majors and minors that span across six colleges and 28 schools. The Scheller College of Business and College of Engineering are both highly ranked. They’re also well-known for their football team, the “Yellow Jackets,” which has won four national championships.

Since Georgia Tech is a highly ranked school with a competitive admissions process, it’s imperative to have a solid academic profile and well-rounded application to be considered for acceptance. In this post, we’ll review the average academic profile of a prospective Georgia Tech student, important factors the admissions committee looks for, tips for improving your chances of acceptance, and everything else you need to know to apply for Georgia Tech.

Getting accepted into Georgia Tech is challenging, but it is possible with hard work and determination. Last year, only 21% of applicants were admitted. Out of 40,852 who applied, only 8,719 were accepted. Since Georgia Tech is a selective school, it’s critical to have a robust application when you apply.

While Georgia Tech’s acceptance rate is low, your personal chances of acceptance may be higher or lower depending on the strength of your academic profile.

To gain an understanding of your chances of acceptance at Georgia Tech, use our free admissions calculator . This tool uses your grades, test scores, extracurriculars, and more to estimate your odds of acceptance and top schools, like Georgia Tech. Plus, we’ll give you tips on how to improve your profile!

The average high school GPA of the Georgia Tech Class of 2025 is 4.09 . The percentage of students with a 4.0 GPA is 84.6% .

The middle 50% SAT scores for admitted Georgia Tech students were 1380-1520 . The middle 50% for ACT scores is 31-35.

71% of students submitted SAT scores, while 51% of students submitted ACT scores. Georgia Tech requires students to submit either an SAT or ACT score during the application process.

Of the students accepted to Georgia Tech for the 2020-2021 school year, 88% were in the top ten percent of their high school graduating class. 98% of students were in the top quarter of their graduating class.

Most students applying to Georgia Tech have a strong academic profile. Although submitted high test scores and a competitive GPA are essential, it’s also crucial to develop a well-rounded application and find unique ways to stand out as an individual.

Georgia Tech says they are looking for students who ​​enjoy being challenged and are committed to improving the human condition. They are equally interested in your academic background and your interests and pursuits outside the classroom.

How Georgia Tech Evaluates Applications

According to their 2020-2021 Common Data Set , Georgia Tech considers the following factors “very important” :

• Course rigor
• Academic GPA
• Application essay
• Extracurricular activities
• Character/personal qualities
• Volunteer work
• Work experience

These factors are “important” :

• Standardized test scores
• Geographical residence
• State residency

These are “considered” :

• Recommendations
• Talent/ability
• First-generation
• Alumni relation
• Racial/ethnic status

And these are “not considered” :

• Religious affiliation
• Level of applicant’s interest

Discover your chances at hundreds of schools

Our free chancing engine takes into account your history, background, test scores, and extracurricular activities to show you your real chances of admission—and how to improve them.

1. Achieve at least a 4.09 GPA while taking the most challenging classes available

Remember, the average GPA of students accepted to Georgia Tech for the 2020-2021 school year was 4.09 , and the percentage of students with a 4.0 GPA is 84.6% .

When you’re applying to Georgia Tech, it’s crucial to ensure your GPA clears this threshold to increase your chances of admission.

The reason why is a tool called the Academic Index . The Academic Index is used by selective schools, like Georgia Tech, to determine if a student has sufficient academic qualifications to be considered during the admissions process. If you don’t have a competitive transcript, it’s unlikely your application will make it past this initial step in the admissions process.

Although it’s important to keep your GPA high, it’s also important to challenge yourself with rigorous courses . Consider taking honors classes and AP classes to give your transcript (and your application) an extra boost.

If your GPA is lower, and you’re earlier on in your high school career, check out our tips for increasing your GPA . If you’re a junior or senior in high school, it will be harder to improve your GPA, so the easiest way to increase your Academic Index is to get a higher test score.

2. Aim for a 1520 SAT and 35 ACT

Last year, the middle 50% SAT scores for admitted students at Georgia Tech was 1380-1520, and the middle 50% for ACT scores was 31-35. 71% of students submitted SAT scores, while 51% of students submitted ACT scores.

Since Georgia Tech is not a test-optional school, you’ll need to take either the SAT or ACT and garner a competitive score to be considered for acceptance.

To improve your SAT/ACT score, check out these free CollegeVine resources:

• How to Get a Perfect 1600 Score on the SAT
• How to Get a Perfect 36 Score on the ACT
• More SAT Info and Tips
• More ACT Info and Tips

3. Cultivate at least one or two Tier 1-2 extracurriculars (find your “spike”)

Even though all your extracurriculars demonstrate your interests and personality, some extracurriculars are more notable to the admissions committee than others. To help you determine how each type of extracurricular activity is evaluated, we’ve created a rating system called the Four Tiers of Extracurriculars .

When you’re applying to a competitive school like Georgia Tech, we recommend you be involved in a couple of Tier 1-2 extracurriculars to stand out to the admissions committee.

Tier 1 activities include outstanding achievements or leadership, like winning, being selected for a prestigious summer program, or receiving national recognition for an accomplishment in sports or music.

Tier 2 activities include more common achievements that demonstrate leadership, like becoming the student body president at your school or being an all-state selection for football or band.

Instead of participating in a range of unrelated activities, focus heavily on a related set of extracurriculars (a highly-developed interest known as a “ spike “). For example, winning a national writing competition with an essay you wrote during your junior year and serving as the editor in chief for your school’s newspaper are two extracurricular accomplishments that show a related interest in writing!

4. Write engaging essays

Your essays are one of the best ways to stand out during the admissions process. Georgia Tech rates your essays as a “very important” part of the admissions process, so it’s essential to take your time to develop thorough responses. Try to demonstrate your alignment with the school, personal qualities and character traits, and volunteer experiences and contribution to your community in your essay. Georgia Tech considers all these factors for admission, so be sure to weave them into your essays!

Discover our tips and best practices for writing the Georgia Tech essays for the 2021-2022 school year!

5. Apply early action

Although Georgia Tech does not have an early decision or “restrictive” early action plan, they have a regular early action plan. They also have two phases of early action admissions—one for Georgia students and one for out-of-state students. Georgia Tech’s early action plan does not restrict you from applying to the action plans at other schools.

However, applying by the early action deadline can significantly increase your chances of acceptance into Georgia Tech. Generally speaking, early action students are 4-6% more likely to be accepted than non-early action applicants. This number may seem insignificant, but when you consider that only 21% of all applicants are accepted to Georgia Tech, this advantage can be significant for competitive schools.

How to Apply to Georgia Tech

Application Requirements

Students can apply using the Common Application. You’ll also need the following:

• $75 application fee
• Official high school transcript with 9-12th courses and 9-11th grades
• Self-reported or official SAT/ACT scores
• Supplemental essays and short responses

Learn more about Georgia Tech

• What Is Georgia Tech Known For?
• Georgia Tech Student Panel
• What Does It Cost to Attend Georgia Tech?

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Just realized I screwed up my Georgia Tech essay after submitting it

When I originally wrote the essay, I wrote it talking about why engineering would be good for me. Before submitting though, I switched my first choice major to computer science and put mechanical engineering as my second choice (cuz my parents suggested I choose cs for oos schools) and I didn't bother changing the essay because I thought cs was a type of engineering (but apparently it wasn't). I'm not too worried about it because GT looks at so many other things, but I feel like it's a mistake that could've been avoided.