Application: You cannot be admitted if you do not complete an application to the college (or use the Common Application Form available for some colleges and universities). Colleges review the application to learn about your in-school and extracurricular activities. Selective colleges also require an essay. They use the essay to learn about you and also to judge your ability to express your thoughts in writing. (Usually submitted in the fall of your senior year of high school.)

Secondary School Record: Your high school record carries a great deal of weight. Slightly lower grades in more rigorous courses are often more important than higher grades in easier classes. Most colleges want to see that you have challenged yourself with rigorous courses and have done what you can to best prepare for college-level work.

College Entrance Tests: Most colleges require SATs or ACTs. However, the importance a college places on these tests varies greatly. Standardized test scores are seldom the most important factor in an admissions decision, and most colleges do not have cut-off scores. (Usually taken no later than fall of the senior year.)

Recommendations: Most colleges take recommendations from your high school guidance counselor, principal, and/or teacher(s) seriously. The colleges use these as evidence of your potential, character, and classroom effort.  Key people at your school who know you well are best able to give the college a fair and valuable assessment of you and your work. (Must be sent to the college prior to the application deadline.)  Allow 2-3 weeks for a letter of recommendation to be prepared.  Fill out the Letter of Recommendation Request Form to give to the person who will write the letter for you.

Out-of-Class Activities: Colleges seek students with a wide variety of interests and experiences. Colleges realize that the intellectual ability and the varied perspectives of their students contribute to the overall educational climate.  Colleges view community service, student government, athletics, overseas study, hobbies, as well as participation in theater, music, art, dance, or academic clubs positively.  However, participation in out-of-class activities will not compensate for a poor academic record.

The Interview: If a college you are considering encourages interviews, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity.  The interview is an excellent way to determine if a college will really fit you.  Admissions counselors at the college can answer most of your questions.  In some cases, an interview may make the difference in whether you are admitted or not.  If you believe you may be a marginal candidate for admission to a specific college, request an interview.  However, do your homework before you go.  Have good questions and be sure you can explain why that college is attractive to you.