How to Get into the Best Colleges for Engineering

Are you a high school student hoping to get into one of the nation’s top schools for engineering? First of all, it is a good idea to start building your resume early in high school. This is crucial for gaining the technical and interpersonal skills you will want to showcase in your applications. It is also important for progressing and eventually gaining a leadership position in a club that is related to engineering. This blog post is your ultimate guide to ensuring that you not only stand out as a prospective applicant, but that you realize all your college admission goals. Whether you’re a natural-born problem-solver or someone whose curiosity is propelled by how things work, you’ll find invaluable insights here to highlight your potential and get you one step closer to your dream engineering school.

Whether you’re interested in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, environmental engineering, aerospace engineering, or any other branch of engineering– here’s what you need to get into a top engineering school:

• Strong Academics: First and foremost, strong academic performance in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects is crucial. Top engineering colleges look for students with high weighted GPAs, particularly in challenging courses like honors, Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes related to math and science. Excelling in these areas demonstrates your readiness for the rigors of an engineering curriculum. But, this is just the beginning, There are many other components to your application that will be crucial.
• High Standardized Test Scores: High scores on standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT are often prerequisites for admission into premier engineering programs. Preparing thoroughly for these exams, including taking advantage of test prep courses or tutors, if necessary, can significantly enhance your application.
• Extracurricular Activities: Engaging in relevant extracurricular activities is another pivotal factor for those aiming to gain admission into top undergraduate engineering programs. Schools are eager to admit students who have demonstrated a commitment beyond the classroom, particularly in areas that showcase their leadership skills, teamwork, and a genuine interest in engineering pursuits. Joining academic competitions and clubs, such as competing on your school’s math team, robotics team or leading a science club at your school, can significantly enhance your profile. These activities not only reflect your passion and dedication towards engineering but also your ability to work collaboratively and lead initiatives, which are qualities highly valued by a top engineering program.
• Use Your Summers Wisely: Attending summer programs at colleges or universities can provide a glimpse into college-level coursework and life on campus. These programs, especially those focused on engineering or scientific research, can enhance your knowledge, skills, and your application. Additionally, it would be ideal to secure an engineering research internship directly with a university professor.
• Compile a Compelling Maker Portfolio: Maker portfolios are highly relevant for students aspiring to secure admission to the most prestigious undergraduate engineering programs. These portfolios serve as tangible evidence of a student’s engineering skills, creativity, and hands-on experience. By showcasing projects, designs, and innovations in a maker portfolio, applicants can demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, highlight their problem-solving capabilities, and exhibit a strong passion for engineering. Admissions committees often value the depth and breadth of experiences reflected in maker portfolios, as they provide a comprehensive view of an applicant’s potential and readiness to excel in an engineering program. Crafting a compelling maker portfolio can significantly enhance an applicant’s profile and increase their chances of gaining acceptance to a top engineering school.
• Seek Strong Letters of Recommendation: Letters of recommendation from teachers, especially those in math or science, who can attest to your academic abilities and character, can significantly impact your application. Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide specific examples of your strengths and potential. It is also crucial to have an additional recommender who has worked with you on your engineering research or your maker project.
• Apply Early: Consider applying early decision or early action to your top choice schools. Doing so can increase your chances of acceptance, as it demonstrates your strong interest in the institution. However, be aware of the binding commitment involved with early decision applications.
• Your Essays: After all of this preparation, please note that your essays may be the biggest differentiating factor in the admissions process. This may include your Common App essay, the countless school-specific supplements you will have to write and other parts of the application where you can present your resume and research. In your essays, colleges want to hear more about you personally and to get to know you as an individual—this means that they don’t just want to hear about your interest in engineering!
• Your Interviews: Not all schools interview, but for engineering programs that do interview, this will be a very crucial part of your application. Please make sure that you prepare for your interviews. Schools will want to know that you have strong communication skills and that you can have a strong conversation on a wide range of topics with your interviewer.

Final Thoughts

Achieving admission to the best engineering colleges is no small feat, but with dedication, planning, and a passion for your field, your dream school can become a reality. By focusing on these key areas, you’ll position yourself as a strong candidate, ready to take on the challenges and opportunities of a top-tier engineering education as offered by MIT, Stanford University, and more.

By incorporating these additional strategies into your college application plan, you will not only strengthen your profile but also deepen your readiness for a future in engineering. The path to becoming a standout applicant requires time, effort, and genuine interest in your field of choice. Remember, every step you take in this direction not only brings you closer to gaining admission into a top engineering college but also prepares you for a successful career in engineering. Consider connecting with an expert in the field that can help make this process less intimidating. Here at Spark Admissions, our team of dedicated college admissions consultants have the honed and relevant expertise necessary to leverage your candidacy within an increasingly competitive admissions landscape. Reach out to us here for a complimentary consultation with one of our experts to learn more about how we can help you plan for admission to one of the nation’s most elite undergraduate engineering programs.

About The Author

Dr. Rachel Rubin

Dr. Rachel Rubin is the co-founder of Spark Admissions and holds a doctorate from Harvard University, where she was a Presidential Scholar. A former university faculty member and high school teacher, she understands the needs of adolescents and excels in guiding them through the admissions process, from identifying best-fit colleges to refining application essays. A U.S. Presidential Scholar and member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, Dr. Rubin has helped thousands of students gain acceptance to their top-choice schools.

See author's posts