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STEM fields play a crucial role in modern society. Students with exceptional skills in these areas can build successful careers in the future. Competition for admission to STEM programs is intense. So, what efforts are needed to enter a STEM major?



About STEM Majors

Courses

To get into a STEM major, it’s essential to take enough STEM-related courses starting from high school. Choose advanced courses in mathematics and science and follow the most rigorous curriculum your school offers. Examples include AP (Advanced Placement) or IB (International Baccalaureate) courses, and subjects like calculus, computer science, statistics, chemistry, biology, and physics. This is essential for all STEM fields. However, don't focus solely on STEM subjects. Colleges also look for activities in diverse fields such as writing and communication. They do not prefer students who have concentrated exclusively on math and science.

 

Required GPA

It’s a common answer, but, of course, you should aim for the highest GPA possible! Accepted applicants at the most competitive colleges already have top grades, especially in STEM subjects, where they usually earn A’s. Remember that your GPA will be reviewed in the context of your school.

 

SAT/ACT/AP Scores

The most competitive applicants typically have a minimum ACT score of 35 and an SAT score of 1530. For STEM majors, it’s crucial to achieve high scores in the science and math sections of the ACT, and nearly perfect scores in math on the SAT. Ideally, you should achieve a minimum score of 4 or 5 on all STEM-related AP exams.

 

Extracurricular Activities

Many STEM applicants have excellent grades and test scores. To stand out among talented students, you must participate in extracurricular activities. Rather than showing a shallow interest in multiple subjects and fields, it’s best to immerse yourself deeply in a few key areas or majors. Find unique activities that make you stand out and look for ways to demonstrate leadership and influence.

Engage in independent research related to your specific interests and seek internships. Participating in community activities related to your interests is also important, such as tutoring or creating a STEM club for middle school students, volunteering for political campaigns that support ideal values, or creating video series on STEM topics for children. STEM competitions are another way to showcase your scientific talents. Consider participating in international-level competitions like the Science Olympiad, Google Science Fair, or Regeneron Science Talent Search. The key is to demonstrate "impact, intellectual curiosity, and initiative" in all your chosen activities. Think creatively and ambitiously!

 

STEM Major List

   - Applied Mathematics

   - Applied Mathematics - Biology

   - Applied Mathematics - Computer Science

   - Applied Mathematics - Economics

   - Astronomy

   - Behavioral Decision Sciences

   - Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

   - Biology (Ecology & Evolutionary)

   - Biology (Molecular Biophysics & Biochemistry)

   - Biology (Molecular, Cellular, & Developmental)

   - Biomedical Engineering

   - Biophysics

   - Chemical Engineering

   - Chemical Physics

   - Chemistry

   - Cognitive Neuroscience

   - Cognitive Science

   - Computational Biology

   - Computer Science

   - Computer Science - Economics

   - Computer Science - Psychology

   - Data Science

   - Electrical Engineering

   - Electrical Engineering & Computer Science

   - Engineering

   - Environmental Studies

   - Geological Sciences

   - Geology - Biology

   - Geology - Chemistry

   - Geology - Physics/Mathematics

   - Health & Human Biology

   - History of Science, Medicine, and Public Health

   - Linguistics (with STEM components like Computational Linguistics)

   - Mathematics

   - Mathematics - Computer Science

   - Mathematics - Economics

   - Mechanical Engineering

   - Neuroscience

   - Physics

   - Physics and Philosophy

   - Public Health

   - Science, Technology, and Society

   - Statistics
 

When studying in a STEM field, it’s essential to find a major that best fits your interests and goals. As a student aspiring to a STEM major, you need to build, discover, and explore your field. Whether pursuing research, community service, or other independent projects, you must showcase your specialties within the STEM field. Communication is a crucial skill for STEM majors, as students must convey their work to others through writing or presentations. Demonstrating strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities is also vital. Pursuing a STEM major requires immense effort, perseverance, and dedication. It means that if you want a career in the STEM field, you must be passionate. Your application must reflect and prove genuine enthusiasm.

 

Careers for STEM Applicants

   - Physician

   - Dentist

   - Epidemiologist

   - Nurse Practitioner

   - Occupational Therapist

   - Physical Therapist

   - Psychologist

   - Surgeon

   - Veterinarian

   - Engineering

   - Biomedical Engineer

   - Civil Engineer

   - Environmental Engineer

   - Mechanical Engineer

   - Tech

   - Data Scientist

   - IT Specialist

   - Information Security Analyst

   - Software Developer/Engineer

   - Web Developer

   - Mathematics

   - Accountant

   - Actuary

   - Financial Advisor

   - Statistician

   - Data Analyst

   - Miscellaneous Science

   - Academician/Scientist

   - Teacher/Professor

   - Biochemist

   - Forensic Scientist

   - Geoscientist