Admission Rates and Requirements

Your application is more than just a collection of numbers and achievements. It's an opportunity to showcase who you are as a person, your passions and your potential to contribute positively to the college community. So, be true to yourself, put your best foot forward, and let your unique qualities shine through in your application. Show the colleges why you would be a great fit for their campus, and remember that each college is looking for a diverse group of students with a variety of strengths and talents.

When it comes to college admissions, colleges consider several factors when they decide which students to accept. While not all colleges require every factor listed below, it’s helpful to understand the most common considerations in student application packages:

1. Rigor of Courses and Grades: Colleges pay close attention to the rigor of your courses and the grades you earn in them. Meaning, they don’t just care about your grades, they also care how challenging or advanced your classes were, and the variety of courses you took. Showing a willingness to take on challenging academic work can leave a positive impression. In addition, some college majors or career paths may require you to take specific courses in high school for that field. If you already know what you would like to study at the postsecondary level, start exploring colleges with those majors and talk to your school counselor about your options.
2. Standardized Test Scores: Many colleges still review standardized test scores like ACT or SAT. There are free test prep resources to get you ready, such as Khan Academy. But don’t worry, it’s not about hitting a specific score — they look at score ranges. So, keep leveling up your skills, aim high and show them what you’ve got! You can also talk to your school counselor about which test might be a better fit for you.
3. Admissions Essays: When you write personal statements and essays as part of a college application, it’s all about showing your true self. Colleges want to know about your background, thoughts and writing skills. Be genuine and fully address the given topic. If you get to choose the topic, pick a subject you know a lot about and feel comfortable writing about—whether this is something you have studied or worked on, an experience you’ve had or something you care deeply about. Keep your essay within the word limits and use specific examples to make it compelling. Your unique voice will leave a lasting impression. You’ll find great essay advice on BigFuture’s website.
4. Recommendations: It’s important to understand the value of recommendations from your school counselors, mentors and teachers when it comes to applying to colleges. These letters can make a big difference in how the college admissions committee evaluates your application. These personal recommendations provide detailed insights into your enthusiasm for learning and your positive contributions to the classroom, school and community. You’ll find great advice on recommendations on BigFuture’s website.
5. Extracurricular Activities: Colleges love to see your passion and real leadership skills shine through in a few activities, rather than across many. When it comes to your extracurricular activities, it’s all about quality, not quantity. So, get involved in what you love the most and show your commitment. Whether it’s sports, clubs, community service or part-time work, take the lead and make a difference. Your enthusiasm and initiative will leave colleges impressed!

If you have honed in on some colleges that seem like the perfect fit for you, you may want to apply Early Action or Early Decision if it's an option. These early applications, due in October or November, can sometimes give you an advantage in getting accepted. It's also important to note that each college has its own set of requirements and standards for admissions. It's important to do your research and understand what each college is looking for in its applicants. Take the time to explore their websites, attend virtual information sessions and reach out to admissions counselors if you have any questions. Remember, colleges look for more than just grades and test scores! They value diversity and unique qualities that students like you bring to the table. Your background, experiences, challenges and talents can make a difference in the admissions process — so be sure your application communicates what makes you special. Ideas for what you might share in your application include:

• Speaking multiple languages
• Having faced hardship and/or overcome significant obstacles at some time in your life
• How your cultural, ethnic and/or family background shape your perspective and make you the individual you are
• Responsibilities that are different from those of your peers
• A relationship (such as with a family member or friend) that has shaped your perspective or ambitions
• Special talents and abilities that make you unique

Finding Your Best Match and Fit

There are four factors that determine a college’s match and fit for you. They are:

1. Academic Match (e.g., test scores, GPA, majors, etc.
2. Personal Preferences (campus size, location and campus/community life)
3. College Offerings (resources, buildings and support services such as tutoring)
4. Affordability (financial aid and actual cost)

 Use this tip sheet to learn more.

 Exploring colleges can be an exciting process, but it can feel overwhelming at times. Don’t stress—there are lots of sources of information that can help you find the best-fit schools for you. One helpful resource that can simplify your research is the Common Data Set (CDS). It’s a treasure trove of information about colleges and universities! The CDS provides standardized data on various aspects of each school, such as admissions, financial aid, graduation rates, and student demographics. It can give you a good overview of what each college has to offer and help you determine if the school aligns with your preferences and goals.

 The CDS also sheds light on the academic profiles of admitted students, helping you set realistic goals for your high school education. It’s a powerful tool to guide your college journey and ensure you make informed decisions. Once you’ve gathered information on colleges, you can categorize schools as “reach,” “match,” or “likely” options based on your chance of admission. * You can create a well-balanced college list with schools that match your interests and academic achievements.

 Another great resource is the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard. There, you can search and compare colleges, including their fields or study, costs, admissions, results (including your potential salary earnings) and more.

 So, dive into the Common Data Set and College Scorecard and let them guide you to the perfect match and fit for your future!

 *A reach school is one that you would love to go to but that has a very competitive admissions process. A match school is a great fit for your needs and goals that will be somewhat less competitive in the admissions process than a reach school. A likely option is a school where you will face less competition in the admissions process and be well positioned to gain acceptance.