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What do colleges look at most during admissions?
I know this is a common question but it always changes over the years. Not too long ago the SAT was required but now most schools say it's optional. I've heard things about GPA along with extracurriculars
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Hamilton’s Answer
This is a great question and I do not think there is a clear answer. University reps talk about a holistic approach i.e. looking at all aspects of a students application with no one thing weighing more than another - generally speaking. GPA and the kinds of courses (rigor relative to the student what the student's school offers) and the grades earned over time in those course are probably the most important since they indicate whether the student can handle the work at that particular university. Letters of recommendation from teachers play a role since they see a student from the front lines of the classroom and how they handle the material of that course. The counselor recommendation provides a wider view of the student. Testing like SAT or ACT, should, if taken, provide a different point of view on a students reasoning (generally speaking). Extra curricular activities should show that the student is involved in their school community and/or beyond as well as the fact the student is not just focusing on academics. They are also indicators of character skills like leadership, collaboration, risk taking (trying something new), perseverance, tolerance.... These skills, upon a students reflection be at the heart of the Personal Statement - who is this student as a person and their perspective on the world around them. I call this the key to the door - is this an interesting student that will add to our university. Finally, the supplement essays - Why this school? What have you done in your community to improve it? and there are many other versions.
While is this a brief overview of some of the factor schools use there are other factors that "hidden" - university priorities. These we will never really know since they change every year. But at the end of the day, the university wants to know if the student will succeed, be a part of and essentially fit their culture, community and thrive.
Researching thoroughly the school is important.
Know who you are realistically
Balance in your life
While is this a brief overview of some of the factor schools use there are other factors that "hidden" - university priorities. These we will never really know since they change every year. But at the end of the day, the university wants to know if the student will succeed, be a part of and essentially fit their culture, community and thrive.
Hamilton recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Rafael’s Answer
Hi Tristan, you’re right that admissions have changed a lot recently, so it’s good to get an updated perspective. Colleges still focus on your GPA and the difficulty of your classes by taking honors, AP, or IB courses shows you’re challenging yourself, and a slightly lower GPA in tougher classes is often valued more than a perfect GPA in easier ones. Many schools are now test-optional for the SAT and ACT, but a strong score can still help, so it’s worth taking the test and deciding later if you want to submit it. Extracurriculars matter, but colleges prefer seeing commitment and leadership in a few activities rather than a long list. Personal essays are important because they let you show who you are beyond grades and scores. Letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well can help, so it’s good to build those relationships. Colleges also notice community involvement, your interest in their school, and whether you’d contribute to their campus. Keep working hard academically and stay engaged in what you enjoy, and you’ll be well prepared when it’s time to apply. I hope this helps!
Updated
Tiarra’s Answer
Hi Tristan. In more recent years, some institutions do not require SAT/ACT scores for admissions. Still, institutions look at your GPA, grades, and personal character. It is important to note that all institutions are different and have different expectations and it is important to explore the websites and do a little research on each institution you are interested in attending. During the admissions process, the institution looks at your personal essay to gain more knowledge about you as a person beyond your grades; this includes any struggles you overcame and how it did not hinder you from completing high school and seeking a college education. Admit to any shortcomings you've experienced and how you've learned from them. Also, utilize the free version of websites like Grammarly to write your admissions essay to write a descriptive, error-free, and comprehensive essay. Since most institutions look for similar information in the admissions essay, begin early and read your writing. Your sentences should read smoothly and the reader should clearly understand you; this will also help you become accustomed to college coursework and expectations. Also, don't forget to fill out the FAFSA to learn if you're eligible for federal financial aid, specifically scholarships and grants.
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