College Bound: Information About Georgia Tech, UGA, Georgia State University, and Augusta University
Applying to college is a significant milestone, and understanding the application process, key deadlines, and what each institution offers can make all the difference. The Peach State 2024 event provides valuable insights for high school students and their families. Below, we explore the offerings, admissions processes, and financial aid options at Georgia’s R1 universities: Georgia Tech, The University of Georgia (UGA), Georgia State University, and Augusta University.
Spotlight on Georgia Universities
Each of these universities offers a unique educational experience, with strengths in different areas. Here’s what you need to know:
Georgia Tech: A leading research university known for its rigorous academic programs, Georgia Tech has an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 19,500 students. With a 98% retention rate, it’s clear that students find the support they need to thrive. Georgia Tech offers 39 majors across six colleges, including the highly regarded College of Engineering and the College of Computing. The university also supports innovative ventures through its CREATE-X program, which has launched over 300 startups.
University of Georgia (UGA): UGA is a large, comprehensive university with over 41,000 students, including more than 31,000 undergraduates. UGA’s Double Dawgs program allows students to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a shorter time frame. The university has a first-year retention rate of 95% and a six-year graduation rate of 88%, reflecting its strong commitment to student success. UGA also offers extensive experiential learning opportunities, including study abroad programs and research initiatives.
Georgia State University (GSU): Located in the heart of Atlanta, GSU is known for its innovative approaches to student success. With over 34,000 undergraduates, GSU is one of the most diverse universities in the nation. The university’s Panther Retention Grant is a notable initiative that helps students overcome financial challenges to stay enrolled. GSU’s urban setting provides students with numerous internship and job opportunities, particularly in business, healthcare, and the arts.
Augusta University: With a strong focus on health sciences, Augusta University offers over 250 academic programs, including highly regarded programs in medicine and nursing. The Medical College of Georgia is a key highlight. Augusta University enrolls about 10,000 students, with a balanced mix of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and offers many research opportunities, particularly in the health and life sciences fields.
The Admissions Process and Key Deadlines
Understanding the admissions process is crucial for students aiming to secure a spot at these competitive institutions:
Georgia Tech:
Application Review: Georgia Tech practices a holistic review process, considering academic preparation, SAT/ACT scores, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and contributions to the community.
Deadlines:
Early Action 1 (Georgia Residents): October 15
Early Action 2 (Non-Georgia Residents): November 1
Regular Decision: January 6
Admission Data: For Fall 2024, Georgia Tech received over 43,000 applications and admitted around 16,000 students, with about 6,150 enrolling. The middle 50% SAT score for admitted students ranges from 1380 to 1540. The middle 50% ACT score for admitted students ranges from 32 to 35.
University of Georgia (UGA):
Application Review: UGA also employs a holistic review process, focusing on academic achievement, leadership, and community service. The application requires the Common App, official transcripts, and SAT/ACT scores.
Deadlines:
Early Action Application Deadline: October 15
Regular Decision Application Deadline: January 1
Admission Data: UGA received over 43,000 applications for the Fall 2024 class, admitting around 16,100 students. The middle 50% SAT score for admitted students ranges from 1340 to 1500. The middle 50% ACT score for admitted students ranges from 31 to 34.
Georgia State University (GSU):
Application Review: GSU has a rolling admissions process, which means applications are reviewed as they are received. This process is advantageous for students who want an early decision.
Deadlines:
While GSU has rolling admissions, students are encouraged to apply early, especially for programs with limited spaces.
Admission Data: GSU has a diverse student body and prides itself on accessibility, with an acceptance rate that reflects its commitment to inclusivity. The university is particularly strong in business, law, and health-related fields. The middle 50% ACT score for admitted students typically ranges from 21 to 26.
Augusta University:
Application Review: Augusta University emphasizes academic preparation and potential for success in its specific programs, particularly in health sciences. The application process includes submitting the Common App, official transcripts, and test scores.
Deadlines:
Early application is recommended, particularly for competitive programs like nursing and medicine.
Admission Data: Augusta University’s Medical College is highly competitive, with rigorous admissions standards. The university offers a supportive environment aimed at student success for other undergraduate programs. The middle 50% ACT score ranges from 23 to 28.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financing a college education is a critical concern for many families. Here’s how these universities help:
Georgia Tech:
Scholarships: The Val-Sal Scholarship offers up to $5,000 for Georgia Tech scholars with significant financial need. The Tech Promise program assists Georgia residents from families earning less than $55,500 annually.
Total Cost of Attendance:
In-State Students: Approximately $29,726 per year, including tuition, fees, room, board, books, and personal expenses.
Out-of-State Students: Approximately $52,152 per year.
University of Georgia (UGA):
Scholarships: UGA offers merit-based scholarships like the Foundation Fellowship, as well as need-based aid. The HOPE and Zell Miller scholarships are also available for Georgia residents.
Total Cost of Attendance:
In-State Students: Approximately $28,830 per year, covering all expenses.
Out-of-State Students: Approximately $49,636 per year.
Georgia State University (GSU):
Scholarships: GSU provides various need-based and merit-based scholarships, including the Panther Retention Grant to assist students facing financial hardships.
Total Cost of Attendance:
In-State Students: Approximately $25,000 per year, including all living expenses.
Out-of-State Students: Approximately $39,000 per year.
Augusta University:
Scholarships: Augusta offers a range of scholarships, particularly for students in health sciences. Research participation and part-time jobs are encouraged to help offset costs.
Total Cost of Attendance:
In-State Students: Approximately $24,000 per year.
Out-of-State Students: Approximately $38,000 per year.
Beyond Academics: Student Life and Success
College life extends far beyond the classroom, and each university offers a vibrant student experience:
Georgia Tech: With over 600 student organizations, 17 sports teams, and a thriving Greek life, Georgia Tech students have numerous ways to get involved. The university’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its extensive research opportunities and entrepreneurial programs.
University of Georgia (UGA): UGA provides a rich campus life with over 600 student organizations and a strong focus on leadership development. The university’s location in Athens, a vibrant college town, offers a lively cultural scene.
Georgia State University (GSU): GSU’s urban setting in Atlanta gives students access to internships, jobs, and cultural experiences. The university’s Panther Retention Grant and learning communities help ensure that students stay on track and graduate.
Augusta University: Augusta emphasizes a close-knit community with a strong focus on health sciences. The university offers many hands-on learning experiences, particularly through its Medical College, which is a hub for cutting-edge research and clinical practice.
Learn More About Each University
Sign Up for Peach State Tour Sessions
The Peach State Tour offers a series of informational sessions designed for high school students and their families to learn more about Georgia Tech, the University of Georgia, Georgia State University, and Augusta University. These sessions provide insights into each university's admissions process, academic programs, campus life, and financial aid opportunities. The sessions are available both in-person and virtually, allowing flexibility for participants to choose the format that best suits their needs. In-person events are scheduled at various locations across Georgia, while virtual sessions offer the convenience of accessing the information from anywhere. Students are encouraged to register early as space is limited.
For more details and to register, visit the Peach State Tour website.