High school students and their families often ask me about what colleges are looking for when reviewing applications. While each college has its own specific criteria, here are a few key areas that most colleges consider when evaluating applicants.
Academics: Your academic performance is likely going to be the most important factor in your college application. Colleges want to see that you have challenged yourself academically by taking advantage of the full range of courses your school offers. While a strong GPA is important, you must keep in mind that colleges also look at the difficulty of your course load. A 4.0 with no APs is usually not looked at as highly as a 3.8 with a hefty AP course load. Your GPA and rigor in courses related to your major will be looked at closely as well. Check out our 2022 blog post for more academic planning tips.
Extracurricular activities: Colleges want to see that you engage with your community and have interests outside of the classroom. Participation in extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, and community service, demonstrates your ability to manage your time, work well with others, and make a positive contribution to your community. If you have a major in mind, be sure to incorporate a few related extracurricular activities as well. When it comes to extracurriculars and leadership, focus on quality, not quantity! Check out our 2019 blog post for more tips on how to optimize the Common App activities section.
Demonstrated interest: As students apply to more colleges, more colleges are focusing on who demonstrates interest. Showing excitement about the college in your supplemental essays (and by visiting campus or opening their emails) helps the admissions counselor feel more confident in providing an acceptance in return. Check out our 2018 blog post for more information about how to demonstrate interest.
Strong character and values. When you enroll at a college, you are one member of a much larger community. Admission counselors are constantly thinking about who will positively complement the existing student body as they form the incoming class. As you put together your application, make sure you’re taking into account if you’re showing how you will contribute to the college’s community. Letters of recommendation are a great way to share your character and values, which means you want to choose which teachers to write those LORs carefully. Supplemental essays are the perfect way to show how you will be a direct asset to each college. Check out our 2022 blog post about how to write a strong “Why This College” essay.
While these are some of the key areas that colleges consider, it is important to remember that each college has its own unique set of criteria and priorities. Be sure to research each college's specific requirements and consider how your strengths align with their goals and values.