MSW California?

[abj08001]

I am from the East Coast but looking to apply to MSW programs in California. Does being out of state make a difference in the application process?

[MSW11]

I am from the East Coast but looking to apply to MSW programs in California. Does being out of state make a difference in the application process?

I think it depends on where you apply. Some CSU's may consider applicants who live locally over out of state applicants. I think UC's consider more out of state students than CSU's, but are likely to favor local applicants over out of state applicants in a group of equally qualified applicants (local student may be more likely to actually enroll than out of state students). As for private schools, I don't think they really weigh your location in the application process. I think a lot of programs like to have some out of state student so that the incoming cohort is more diverse. It's all going to depend on your qualifications and concentration. If you are more qualified than the average applicant than you shouldn't have any problem. What schools are you thinking about?

[abj08001]

USC, UCLA and UCBerkeley would be my top choices, but not sure if I am qualified. I have had internships and volunteer experiences the past three summers and always volunteer during the school year as well. I know I will have great recommendations but I am nervous about the GPA cut off. I have just over a 3.0 for my overall GPA, but a 3.4 for my major classes. Those schools all have a 3.0 cutoff so I am not sure how thoughtfully I will be considered. What do you think?

[MSW11]

I don't know much about UCLA or USC but UC Berkeley admits by concentration, so depending on what concentration you will apply for it may make a difference. In general, I think they have about a 25% admittance rate for all concentrations. They also consider the GRE. So...if they admit about 25% of the applicants and the GPA cut off is 3.0. With all things considered, you would need to be in the top 25 - 30% of applicants. Since USC is a private school and more costly, I am guessing that it is easier to get into because there will likely be more admitted students who will choose to go elsewhere due to the high tuition, which means that even if you are waitlisted you might have a good chance at getting off the waitlist. I really don't know much about UCLA, but I suspect it's easier than UC Berkeley, but maybe more difficult than USC. What is you concentration and what state are you in? I would suggest doing some research on schools that are geared towards what you are interested in and also find schools who admit a larger amount of applicants. If you are worried about your GPA, my opinion is that finding a school that will be a really good match for you will be to your advantage. Spend a lot of time on your personal statement and really work hard at gearing it towards the school(s) you are applying for - don't make it generic. The extra time spent on your personal statement will pay off. AND make sure to get some feedback on your POS. I personally found an objective perspective to be more helpful because it's hard to take criticism from people who are close to you.

USC, UCLA and UCBerkeley would be my top choices, but not sure if I am qualified. I have had internships and volunteer experiences the past three summers and always volunteer during the school year as well. I know I will have great recommendations but I am nervous about the GPA cut off. I have just over a 3.0 for my overall GPA, but a 3.4 for my major classes. Those schools all have a 3.0 cutoff so I am not sure how thoughtfully I will be considered. What do you think?