Example College Application: What should a strong application look like?

Hey everyone, I'm starting to work on my college applications and I'm kinda lost. I'd like to see a successful example of a college application so I can get a sense of what colleges are looking for. Does anyone know where I can find examples or could someone share their own experience in creating a successful application?

Hey there! While you're unlikely to find an entire example college application, due to privacy concerns, I can provide you with some key components that contribute to a strong application. Here's a brief overview of what colleges generally look for in successful applicants:

1. Strong transcripts: Maintain a high GPA and take rigorous courses, such as AP or IB classes, if possible. You want to show colleges that you can handle challenging coursework.

2. Good standardized test scores (if required): Good scores on the SAT or ACT can strengthen your application, but many schools have become test-optional or even test-blind. Depending on the school, however, aiming high on one of these two tests may still make sense. You can learn more about how to navigate test-optional policies on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional/.

3. High-quality extracurricular involvement: Focus on quality, not quantity. Colleges appreciate students who are deeply involved in a few select activities and display leadership, initiative, and commitment.

4. Engaging essays: Craft a compelling and authentic personal statement or supplemental essays tailored to each school. Avoid cliché topics and focus on showcasing your unique experiences and perspective. CollegeVine's blog has a range of posts explaining how to tackle both the main personal statement (https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-common-application-essays/) and school-specific supplemental essays (https://blog.collegevine.com/category/essays/essay-breakdown/).

5. Excellent recommendation letters: Request letters from teachers or counselors who know you well and can speak to your academic and personal strengths.

6. Demonstrated interest in the school: Attend college visits or information sessions, engage with school reps at college fairs, or reach out to any contacts you have in the institution. Demonstrating your genuine interest in a specific school can improve your chances of admission - even at schools that don't directly consider the level of an applicant's interest, the more informed you are about a school, the better you'll be able to cater your application to that school's values and culture.

7. A polished and well-organized application: Make sure everything in your application is accurate, well-written, and complete. Take the time to review and revise all aspects to ensure they are truly reflective of your achievements and goals.

Ultimately, focus on creating an authentic application that highlights your unique strengths and demonstrates why you're a great fit for the schools you are applying to. Good luck with your applications!