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Grades and Course Rigor Matter the Most in College Admissions

Great College Advice

Admissions officers mark each individual factor (grades, test scores, essays, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, etc.) And they are recorded and presented to college admissions officers on your transcript. The transcript is the record of your academic performance.

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Is Cornell Test Optional? Requirements + Tips

AdmissionSight

Cornell University is test-optional, but not for long. For Fall 2025 applicants, Cornell remains test-optional, giving students the choice to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, this policy will change for Fall 2026 admissions, when standardized test scores will once again be required.

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What Does Harvard University Look For? Requirements + Tips

AdmissionSight

The answer includes strong academics, compelling extracurriculars, and an authentic story that showcases your unique strengths. Harvard takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they dont just focus on grades and test scores. Academic records Your transcript is one of the most critical pieces of your application.

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College Planning for Juniors: How to Prepare for the College Application Process

ACM College Consulting

Prepare for Standardized Tests If you plan to take the SAT or ACT, start preparing now. Plan to take the test at least twice this spring and summer to meet fall deadlines. While most colleges are test-free or test-optional, remember that more and more schools are shifting back to requiring testing.

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UPenn Acceptance Rate: Admissions Statistics

AdmissionSight

A big reason for this surge is the rise of test-optional policies and increased global access to higher education. This means more competition for every spot and higher expectations for grades, test scores, essays, and extracurriculars. Meanwhile, the acceptance rate has decreased from 9.9% to just 5.4%. That’s a massive drop.

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Is Princeton Test-Optional? Requirements + Tips

AdmissionSight

Is Princeton test-optional? Test scores won’t hurt your chances if you don’t submit them. This guide explains Princeton’s testing policy, what you need to know about submitting scores, and tips to help you decide if sending your results will strengthen your application. Is Princeton Test-Optional in 2025?

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A Guide to the US Military Service Academies

College Essay Guy

Earn strong standardized test scores ( minimum SAT scores of 500 verbal and 500 math, or ACT scores of 21 English, 19 Social Studies, 24 Mathematics, and 24 Science). Demonstrate leadership through work experience or extracurricular activities. You should also aim for high standardized test scores ( SAT or ACT ).