‘My preparation for exams focused on consistency rather than long study hours’

Arnav Jain, a recently passed out student from Apeejay School, Pitampura, has secured admission to the prestigious University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, US, for a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, ranked among the top undergraduate CS programmes in the US. He achieved an exceptional SAT score of 1560/1600, an IELTS band score of 8.5, and 95.6% in CBSE Class XII. Passionate about Mathematics, Computer Science, AI, and Quantum Computing, Arnav also enjoys basketball, thriller films, and coding projects. 

In a candid interview, he shares what inspired him to pursue Computer Science, among other things.

How did you feel when you received the acceptance letter?

Receiving the acceptance was a moment of both excitement and disbelief. The journey had involved months of applications, essays, and anticipation, making the outcome especially meaningful. Beyond the happiness of being accepted, it was reassuring to know that the time, effort, and dedication invested throughout the process had truly paid off. 

What inspired you to pursue Computer Science?

It was one of my core subjects in Classes XI and XII, and it played a significant role in shaping my interest in technology. Through my coursework, I developed a strong foundation in programming and analytical thinking, which motivated me to explore the field further. Over time, through online courses, internships, and research projects, I became increasingly fascinated by the power of technology to drive innovation, create meaningful impact, and address real-world challenges through practical solutions.  

Your SAT score of 1560 and IELTS score of 8.5 are remarkable achievements. How did you prepare for these exams? 

My preparation for both exams focused on consistency and practice rather than long study hours. After building a strong understanding of the core concepts, I regularly took mock tests, analysed my mistakes, and worked on improving weaker areas with each attempt. 

How did you manage to balance your Class XII Board preparation with university applications and standardised tests?

Balancing everything was certainly challenging, but starting early made a big difference. I aimed to complete most of my standardised tests and application requirements before the peak Board-exam season. Careful planning, prioritising tasks based on deadlines, and making effective use of weekends and school breaks helped me stay organised and avoid last-minute pressure.

What factors influenced your decision to choose UIUC over the others?

UIUC stood out to me for its world-renowned Computer Science programme and the flexibility it offers to explore diverse interests both within and beyond the discipline. Its strong emphasis on research, hands-on learning, and internships, combined with a collaborative campus culture and extensive alumni network, made it an ideal fit for my academic and professional aspirations. 

Were there any challenges?

One of the biggest challenges was condensing years of academic, extracurricular, and personal experiences into a few application essays. Through multiple drafts, guidance from mentors and family, and extensive research, I learnt that authenticity and meaningful reflection matter far more than simply listing achievements.

How has your time at Apeejay School, Pitampura, contributed to your success and personal growth?

The school has played a significant role in my growth by fostering curiosity, discipline, and independent thinking. Beyond academics, opportunities in competitions, clubs, sports, and leadership roles helped build my confidence and broaden my perspective. The constant support and encouragement of my teachers inspired me to set higher goals and believe in my potential.

What are your goals and aspirations for your undergraduate years at UIUC and beyond?

At UIUC, I hope to strengthen my understanding of Computer Science through rigorous coursework, research, and hands-on projects while exploring emerging fields such as AI and Quantum Computing. In the long term, I aspire to contribute to technological innovation, particularly in cybersecurity, by developing solutions that address meaningful real-world challenges.

What advice would you like to give to Apeejayites who dream of gaining admission to top international universities?

My advice would be to start early and plan intentionally. Whether it’s competitions, internships, research projects, or standardised tests, spreading them out over time makes the process far more manageable. It allows you to make the most of each opportunity, perform at your best, and avoid unnecessary academic pressure.   

One lesson or value that you will carry with you.

One lesson I will always carry with me is to never let achievement replace curiosity. Many of my most meaningful experiences began with curiosity rather than a defined goal. Apeejay School’s motto, Soaring High is my Nature, has taught me that excellence is not just about accomplishments but also about continuous learning and growth. This mindset of embracing new challenges and giving my best, even when stepping into the unknown, is something I hope to carry with me to the US.