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What are college admissions looking for in highschool students?
What are college admissions looking for in highschool students?
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Doc’s Answer
A high-quality applicant is more than your GPA Jeddida. College admissions teams look for a well-rounded candidate who stands out from the crowd.
1) ACADEMICS
Strong academics is one predictor that influences long-term achievement. When a student can manage an academic schedule successfully, it shows that they possess skills that will translate into other areas of their life, including college academics. Good grades demonstrate intelligence, but they also show that a student is organized, possesses time management skills and is motivated to do well.
2) EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Participating in extracurricular activities allows you to expand your interests, try new things and excel outside of the classroom. These can include school-sponsored and community activities like clubs, sports, the arts and other interests such as community service, student government or political activist groups.
3) ESSAY
Essays are an important part of your application as they provide color to your application beyond just your test scores. Here, showcase your technical writing and storytelling skills to tell the admissions team what makes you unique. Write about a specific event, person or circumstance that has had an impact on your life. Share your personal story in a way that lets the admissions team get to know you on a personal level. They already know about your grades, accolades and recommendations. This is your time to share your own story with them.
4) LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
Letters of recommendation reveal a side of the student from a different perspective and are essential to the application process. Coaches, teachers, advisors and administrators provide insights into your personality that can’t be quantified. They notice things like leadership, kindness, and integrity.
5) INTEREST IN THE INSTITUTION
It is worth the time and effort to demonstrate interest in a college, especially ones that are your top choices. Begin by simply requesting more information or reaching out to the admissions team. Your admissions counselor will be a vital connection to the university – once you’ve been assigned a point of contact, be sure to reach out and introduce yourself. This person will be a valuable resource throughout the application process and can answer any questions you have along the way.
1) ACADEMICS
Strong academics is one predictor that influences long-term achievement. When a student can manage an academic schedule successfully, it shows that they possess skills that will translate into other areas of their life, including college academics. Good grades demonstrate intelligence, but they also show that a student is organized, possesses time management skills and is motivated to do well.
2) EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Participating in extracurricular activities allows you to expand your interests, try new things and excel outside of the classroom. These can include school-sponsored and community activities like clubs, sports, the arts and other interests such as community service, student government or political activist groups.
3) ESSAY
Essays are an important part of your application as they provide color to your application beyond just your test scores. Here, showcase your technical writing and storytelling skills to tell the admissions team what makes you unique. Write about a specific event, person or circumstance that has had an impact on your life. Share your personal story in a way that lets the admissions team get to know you on a personal level. They already know about your grades, accolades and recommendations. This is your time to share your own story with them.
4) LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
Letters of recommendation reveal a side of the student from a different perspective and are essential to the application process. Coaches, teachers, advisors and administrators provide insights into your personality that can’t be quantified. They notice things like leadership, kindness, and integrity.
5) INTEREST IN THE INSTITUTION
It is worth the time and effort to demonstrate interest in a college, especially ones that are your top choices. Begin by simply requesting more information or reaching out to the admissions team. Your admissions counselor will be a vital connection to the university – once you’ve been assigned a point of contact, be sure to reach out and introduce yourself. This person will be a valuable resource throughout the application process and can answer any questions you have along the way.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
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Paul’s Answer
GPA is usually a primary element, they utilize to eliminate applicants.
They want to be sure that you can achieve positive results at the college level, so the grade point is a certain aspect they always pay attention to in the application process.
Usually, anything above a 3.0 GPA is considered to be good. But, I would definitely aim for something higher.
They want to be sure that you can achieve positive results at the college level, so the grade point is a certain aspect they always pay attention to in the application process.
Usually, anything above a 3.0 GPA is considered to be good. But, I would definitely aim for something higher.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jeddida,
What College Admissions Look for in High School Students
College admissions officers look for a variety of qualities and achievements in high school students when reviewing applications. Here are some key factors that are typically considered:
1. Academic Performance: One of the most important factors that college admissions officers consider is a student’s academic performance. This includes grades, class rank, and the rigor of the courses taken. Admissions officers want to see that students have challenged themselves academically and have performed well in their coursework.
2. Standardized Test Scores: Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, are also important in the college admissions process. While not the only factor considered, these scores can provide admissions officers with an indication of a student’s academic abilities and potential for success in college.
3. Extracurricular Activities: Colleges also look for students who have been actively involved in extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, volunteer work, or part-time jobs. Admissions officers value students who have shown leadership, initiative, and a commitment to their interests outside of the classroom.
4. Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other mentors can provide valuable insight into a student’s character, work ethic, and potential for success in college. These letters can help admissions officers get a more holistic view of a student beyond their academic achievements.
5. Personal Essays: Personal essays or statements are another important component of college applications. These essays allow students to showcase their personality, values, and unique experiences that may not be captured elsewhere in the application. Admissions officers look for authenticity and genuine reflection in these essays.
6. Demonstrated Interest: Some colleges also consider a student’s demonstrated interest in their institution when making admissions decisions. This can include campus visits, interviews, or other interactions that show a student’s enthusiasm for attending that particular college.
In summary, college admissions officers look for well-rounded students who have demonstrated academic excellence, involvement in extracurricular activities, strong personal qualities, and a genuine interest in their institution.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The College Board: The College Board is a reputable organization that provides information and resources related to college admissions, including guidance on what colleges look for in applicants.
National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): NACAC is a professional organization dedicated to supporting high school counselors and college admissions professionals. They offer valuable insights into the college admissions process.
U.S. News & World Report - Education Section: U.S. News & World Report is known for its rankings and analysis of colleges and universities. Their education section often features articles on college admissions criteria and trends.
These sources were consulted to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided regarding what college admissions look for in high school students.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
What College Admissions Look for in High School Students
College admissions officers look for a variety of qualities and achievements in high school students when reviewing applications. Here are some key factors that are typically considered:
1. Academic Performance: One of the most important factors that college admissions officers consider is a student’s academic performance. This includes grades, class rank, and the rigor of the courses taken. Admissions officers want to see that students have challenged themselves academically and have performed well in their coursework.
2. Standardized Test Scores: Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, are also important in the college admissions process. While not the only factor considered, these scores can provide admissions officers with an indication of a student’s academic abilities and potential for success in college.
3. Extracurricular Activities: Colleges also look for students who have been actively involved in extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, volunteer work, or part-time jobs. Admissions officers value students who have shown leadership, initiative, and a commitment to their interests outside of the classroom.
4. Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other mentors can provide valuable insight into a student’s character, work ethic, and potential for success in college. These letters can help admissions officers get a more holistic view of a student beyond their academic achievements.
5. Personal Essays: Personal essays or statements are another important component of college applications. These essays allow students to showcase their personality, values, and unique experiences that may not be captured elsewhere in the application. Admissions officers look for authenticity and genuine reflection in these essays.
6. Demonstrated Interest: Some colleges also consider a student’s demonstrated interest in their institution when making admissions decisions. This can include campus visits, interviews, or other interactions that show a student’s enthusiasm for attending that particular college.
In summary, college admissions officers look for well-rounded students who have demonstrated academic excellence, involvement in extracurricular activities, strong personal qualities, and a genuine interest in their institution.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The College Board: The College Board is a reputable organization that provides information and resources related to college admissions, including guidance on what colleges look for in applicants.
National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): NACAC is a professional organization dedicated to supporting high school counselors and college admissions professionals. They offer valuable insights into the college admissions process.
U.S. News & World Report - Education Section: U.S. News & World Report is known for its rankings and analysis of colleges and universities. Their education section often features articles on college admissions criteria and trends.
These sources were consulted to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided regarding what college admissions look for in high school students.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
Updated
Xiaojie Johan’s Answer
Hi Jedida,
Thanks for asking! Colleges and universities are often looking for a well-rounded candidate, which means they're good at a lot of things. On top of GPA and standardized test scores, they're looking for participation in after-school activities such as clubs, music, sports. They also love applicants who excel in leadership positions. This could be a very important factor when applying to competitive schools!
This is just the basics of it, but the specifics are much more nuanced. I'd recommend you do your research on what school(s) you are targeting.
Best of luck!
Thanks,
Johan
Thanks for asking! Colleges and universities are often looking for a well-rounded candidate, which means they're good at a lot of things. On top of GPA and standardized test scores, they're looking for participation in after-school activities such as clubs, music, sports. They also love applicants who excel in leadership positions. This could be a very important factor when applying to competitive schools!
This is just the basics of it, but the specifics are much more nuanced. I'd recommend you do your research on what school(s) you are targeting.
Best of luck!
Thanks,
Johan
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