Hi everyone! Before I share everything, I want to preface that I am a basic, average student and I really don't need to hear negative comments about my stats. I am still somewhat insecure about my stats because I know its not the best, but I am open to constructive criticism and realistic expectations/limitations of my situation. Just don't be too harsh 😭.
I am a 22 year old and I am currently trying apply for a PsyD program for Clinical Psychology (focus on Forensic Psychology) for Fall 2027. I have a 3.1 GPA from a university, but to compensate I have volunteered at the a probation center for Juvenile Hall, become a CASA volunteer, and have taken certification courses in Crime Intelligence & Analysis during this post grad year. I have done some research on schools already and was set on the Chicago School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) in the Anaheim location since it's convenient for me (I also wanted to apply to the LA location, but I heard they are more competitive and that they are strict on GPA so if anyone has any information on that, I would greatly appreciate you share it). However, I saw many reviews on this school it is mostly mixed. Some people have good things to say about the school and others think its awful and the program is suspicious. I also found out that their 2025 pass rate licensure exam (EPPP) is below 80% which is CONCERNING. I don't want to pay for a program where most of the time i'm self-studying. However, this could be because they have larger cohorts so their stats are inflated, but again that stat alone is really bad. I looked at other program such as Palo Alto University, Alliant University, William James, etc. but either they have a low acceptance rate, they are out of state, or that the pass rate licensure exam (EPPP) is really low. I feel scared to apply and lost in what program I should apply for and yes I know to apply to ALL of the programs, but again I fear that I would be rejected from the schools I want to go to.
So I wanted to come on here ask anyone what university is best for their PsyD program for Clinical Psychology (focuses on Forensic Psychology) and my probability of getting in. I know I don't really have much experience and what not, but I am open to advice to help expand my background/ resume.
Thank you for reading!