Reality of IU Kelley Pre-Business

I want to see how people who went to IU pre-business really felt, was it really as hard as people say or are people being dramatic? I’m willing to take a bet on myself and focus on school going to classes everyday and studying, but still want a social life (occasional drinking here and there). What’s the percentage of people pre-business getting into Kelley?

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, getting into IU Kelley from pre-business is not guaranteed and does come with challenges. For transfer students, for example, admission into Kelley requires maintaining at least a 3.5 GPA during their first semester at IU. This indicates that academic performance is a critical factor, and the process can be competitive.

Additionally, the Kelley Investment Banking Workshop (IBW), which is a significant draw for students aiming for high finance roles, has its own rigorous selection process. Admission to the IBW requires a minimum GPA of 3.60 to apply, but exceptions are sometimes made for diversity candidates or those with strong social or fraternity connections. Even high-GPA candidates (e.g., 3.80+) can be rejected in favor of those deemed a better "social fit."

While the academic rigor and competitiveness are real, many students who focus on their studies and actively engage in networking opportunities (e.g., business fraternities) find success. Balancing academics with a social life is possible, but it requires discipline and prioritization.

Sources: IU Kelley Investment Banking Workshop admission questions, IU Kelley Prestige, Undergrad Business: IU (possibly) Kelley or University of Rochester, IU Kelley Transfer Prospects, Last-minute Decision: Vanderbilt vs. IU-Kelley (undergrad)

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