What Colleges Look For
What Counts the Most
High School Record
Most colleges agree that your high school performance has the most weight and best predicts your college performance. High SAT scores can't overshadow a weak academic record. Your program of study is also very important. Take the most challenging classes and don't slack off your senior year.
SAT/ACT Test Scores
These
are important because they allow comparisons between students and
schools. Colleges will take your highest scores, so it is advisable to
take the tests several times.
Activities/Community Service
Colleges
are looking for well-rounded citizens. Students with several intense
interests are preferred to someone who dabbles in numerous areas with
no real commitment.
Recommendations
Your
teachers and counselors can give insight into your character and
motivation. A teacher who believes in your potential can be very
beneficial.
Essays
These
are required by the more selective schools to give admissions personnel
a chance to see you as a person, not just a statistic. The essay also
gives an evaluation of your communication skills. Worth your best
effort! Make sure it is checked by an English teacher for
grammar/punctuation.
Interview
Like the essay, the visit is a chance for the admissions staff to know you as a person. It helps for them to put a face with a file.
