It will be to your advantage to familiarize yourself with college admissions criteria early in high school so you can make yourself a desirable candidate. Keep in mind that admission standards are not barriers but guidelines to show how you compare with others. When you have a clear understanding of the minimum requirements to apply, you can improve your chances for admission by exceeding those requirements. Although colleges and universities consider many factors, your high school record is the most important. That includes not only the courses you take but also the grades you make. Some schools place more importance on standardized test scores than others. Since most schools now publish general information about their freshman classes, you can look up average test scores for schools that interest you and see how your scores compare.
Schools look for qualities and or accomplishments that make you unique. You need to show the original aspects of your personality, what you are involved in, your unique talents, places you have been and things you have seen. Colleges look for well-rounded students who have demonstrated achievement in different areas.
Admissions committees like to see that you not only have done well in your schoolwork but also that you have been involved in outside activities such as sports, student government, academic clubs, school paper, band, chorus, etc. They will pay special attention to any specific talents or accomplishments you may have. For example, if you have spent a long time working on your goal as an artist, musician, gymnast, dancer, or athlete, it demonstrates the kind of sustained commitment, energy, and focus that colleges are looking for. In this case, you should highlight the depth of experience in one specific area rather than limited experiences in many areas.
It is important to mention jobs you have held or volunteer work you have done. It will make a strong impression on admissions personnel if you can show how you have grown and benefited from all you have experienced. It is the combination of your record and all of your unique experiences that will play a significant role in the admissions process.
The most common factors considered for admission to college are outlined below.