3.5/177 - Is SLS hopeless or just unlikely? Forum

[Hstrat]

Title pretty much says it all. 2 years WE, a fairly good PS, but non-URM and no particularly special softs. Is this a "you never know, it's unlikely but you might as well shoot your shot" situation, or would applying just be throwing money away?

[UVA2B]

It's unlikely, but SLS is always a bit black boxish, so if SLS is really a school you want to consider attending, you should absolutely apply. The marginal cost of applying will far outweigh ever wondering if you've left acceptances on the table. And it's not crazy if you managed an acceptance. If you were a 3.2/162, obviously that would be different unless you're truly a miraculous candidate. But with an interesting narrative as well as your otherwise competitive numbers, SLS isn't impossible. Apply, and see what happens.

[HenryHankPalmer]

Shoot for the SLS stars, worst case scenario you land among the CCN clouds.