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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
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800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

What do colleges prioritize in admissions?

Hey! I've been hearing that colleges care about a lot of things, like grades, test scores, and extracurriculars, but can someone give me an idea of what they care about most? I want to know where I should focus my efforts. Thanks!

11 months ago

Hey there! While each college has its own priorities and emphasizes various aspects of an application during their admissions process, there are quite a few elements that most colleges put considerable weight on. Here's a general ranking of factors that colleges prioritize:

1. Grades (GPA): College admissions officers place the most importance on your academic performance in high school. They want to see consistent, strong grades and an upward trend if there were any initial hiccups.

2. Course rigor: Admissions officers are also interested in the rigor of the courses you've taken, such as AP or IB classes. Demonstrating that you've challenged yourself academically throughout high school signals you can handle college-level work.

3. Test scores (SAT/ACT): Test scores are still important at many schools, but more and more colleges are becoming test-optional or test-blind. Check the specific requirements of the schools you're interested in.

4. Extracurricular activities: Colleges value students who've been meaningfully engaged outside the classroom. They often use the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars to evaluate the quality of your activities. Aim for quality over quantity and focus on developing your "spike" or area of specialization.

5. Recommendation letters: Strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors can positively influence admissions decisions. These letters should ideally highlight your achievements, character, and personal growth.

6. Essays: Your personal statement and supplemental essays give admissions officers insight into who you are beyond your academic achievements and activities. A well-written essay can help you stand out, so make sure it's personal and engaging.

7. Demonstrated interest: Some colleges value students who've shown interest in their school, as this indicates a likelihood to attend if admitted. Attending college fairs, campus tours, or virtual events can help demonstrate that you’re genuinely interested in attending their institution.

8. Special talents or achievements: Noteworthy accomplishments, talents, or awards can bolster your application, particularly if they demonstrate expertise or leadership in your chosen field.

Keep in mind that the weight of these factors can vary greatly depending on the college and that many schools practice holistic admissions, meaning they review all aspects of your application. To best focus your efforts, prioritize your grades and course rigor, actively participate in quality extracurriculars related to your interests, and spend time practicing and polishing your essays. Good luck with your college applications!

11 months ago

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