Advice on Lafayette College admissions process?

I'm thinking of applying to Lafayette College and I'm unsure about how competitive the admissions process is. What should I focus on to improve my chances of acceptance? Are there any specific qualities or achievements they value?

Lafayette College is a somewhat selective institution that considers your application holistically. However, the average unweighted GPA of accepted students is around 3.61, so maintaining a strong academic record is important. If you have strong grades, especially in courses relevant to your intended major, this will be advantageous.

Further, course rigor is a key consideration in the admission process. If possible, enroll in honors, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses to demonstrate your ability to handle academic challenges.

Extracurricular involvement is another significant component of the application. Lafayette College seeks students who exhibit leadership, dedication, and passion in their activities outside of the classroom. Ideally, aim for depth rather than breadth in your involvement, demonstrating a strong investment and achievement in a few areas rather than merely participating in a multitude of clubs or activities.

Demonstrated interest is another factor Lafayette values, meaning the admissions committee prefers students who have shown a strong interest in attending the college. Therefore, consider attending college-sponsored events, reaching out to admissions officers with thoughtful questions, or conducting a campus visit, if possible.

Finally, your essay and optional supplemental essays (if you choose to complete them) provide an opportunity to further present your personality, interests, and experiences. Make sure these are well-written and personal, as they play a significant role in the holistic review process.

In terms of achievements, keep in mind that being strongly committed to a few activities (a Tier 2 level achievement) would often make a bigger difference than being somewhat involved in many activities (Tier 3 or Tier 4). That being said, having Tier 1 level achievements would make your application stand out even more.

Lastly, check the specific requirements for your intended major, as some may have additional prerequisites or recommended coursework. Best of luck with your application!