What Looks Good on College Applications?
As college acceptances start to get more and more selective each year, it is extremely important to analyze the different aspects that can play an integral role in gaining admissions to top colleges. While there isn't a one-size-fits-all formula, certain elements tend to enhance an application's appeal.
We’ll begin by diving into the different statistics that are important for applicants. Then, we’ll discuss how to structure extracurricular activities both during one’s high school career and on the application itself and finally, we’ll briefly end with the importance of awards.
What statistics look good on college applications?
Strong academic performance forms the backbone of a compelling college application. High grades in rigorous courses, particularly in subjects relevant to the chosen field of study, demonstrate intellectual curiosity and a commitment to learning. Additionally, standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are often considered. We will break the statistics down into the aforementioned categories.
GPA on college applications
A high GPA is fundamental, but so is the rigor of courses taken. Colleges value students who challenge themselves with advanced or honors classes. Excelling in these courses demonstrates a willingness to take on academic challenges and indicates preparedness for college-level work. Whether it is on a 4.0, 5.0, or any other scale, it is extremely important to achieve the highest possible GPA. This number is a great way for colleges to study how the students performed in school and the metric is oftentimes used as a baseline cutoff to reject applicants who don’t meet the minimum required GPA.
However, remember that students not only want to meet this cutoff GPA that can vary from college to college but they also want to get it as high as possible because it can serve as a huge benefit when compared to other applicants. Finally, students are compared to other students within the same school as them. As a result, it is not very beneficial to compare GPAs with students from other schools or districts as class difficulty and opportunities vary from school to school. So, make the most of the opportunities given in high school and work towards achieving the highest possible GPA.
SAT and ACT scores
While some colleges have become test-optional, strong SAT or ACT scores can bolster an application. These scores provide a standardized metric for comparing students from different schools and backgrounds. A high score can demonstrate proficiency in core subjects and aptitude for college-level work. Although such standardized tests don’t hold as much weight now due to the test-optional nature of colleges, it is still important to add another facet to an applicant’s statistics with a high SAT or ACT score.
AP and IB Tests
AP and IB test scores hold significant weight in college applications and have the potential to boost an application due to their demonstration of academic rigor, college readiness, and subject mastery. These programs offer challenging coursework, and excelling in their exams showcases a student's commitment to excellence. Strong scores not only bolster a high school transcript but also indicate a deeper understanding of specific subjects, potentially aligning with a student's intended college major or career path. Admissions committees at competitive colleges value these scores as they seek students who actively pursue challenging coursework, providing a benchmark for comparing applicants from diverse academic backgrounds.
Moreover, high scores on AP or IB exams may grant students college credits or advanced placement, reducing the time and cost of higher education. This financial benefit, combined with the enriched academic profile and readiness for college-level coursework, elevates the significance of these scores in shaping both admissions decisions and a student's academic trajectory in college. Ultimately, AP and IB test scores serve as strong indicators of a student's academic dedication, initiative, and preparedness for success in higher education.
How can extracurricular activities look good on college applications?
Participation in extracurricular activities illustrates a candidate's interests, dedication, and leadership skills. Involvement in clubs, sports, community service, or arts programs allows applicants to exhibit their passions and commitment beyond the classroom. Depth and continuity in a few activities often hold more weight than superficial involvement in many. While it is important to remember that well-roundedness can provide multiple aspects to your personality and multiple strengths, it is more preferred to find a “spike” to indicate college applications. That is, it is important for students to find what they are passionate about and pursue that to a level that is outside of just a singular club or organization. This can include taking high-level leadership positions in various clubs, starting organizations to tackle local issues outside of school, or pursuing research projects, science competitions, or any other opportunity that demonstrates a deep interest in a certain topic.
Clubs in school
Clubs and extracurricular activities play a crucial role in college applications, showcasing a student's interests, skills, and commitment outside the classroom. Joining clubs related to specific interests or hobbies demonstrates a student's passion and dedication. Whether it's a STEM club, debate team, environmental club, or art society, active involvement illustrates a genuine interest in a particular field or activity. Taking on leadership roles within clubs, such as being a president, vice president, or organizing events, shows initiative, responsibility, and the ability to collaborate effectively with peers. Such leadership positions can be a major boost and look good on college applications. As a result, deep involvement in a few clubs, where a student actively contributes and possibly holds leadership positions, can be more impactful than superficial involvement in numerous clubs. It shows dedication and a genuine commitment to a particular interest.
Developing a “spike” outside of school
Developing a "spike" outside of school clubs for college applications involves deep, focused engagement in a specific passion or pursuit. It goes beyond standard extracurricular activities and showcases a student's commitment, skill development, and impact. This could manifest through independent projects like starting a business, conducting research, or embarking on creative ventures. Winning awards or recognition in national competitions, engaging in meaningful volunteer work, or pursuing specialized training are also ways to create a standout factor.
The key is demonstrating depth, dedication, and impact in this chosen area. Whether it's through entrepreneurial ventures, artistic endeavors, academic pursuits, or community initiatives, showcasing growth, achievements, and the lessons learned from these experiences is crucial. Such pursuits not only reflect a student's interests but also highlight their initiative, leadership, and potential contributions to a college campus. Ultimately, a strong "spike" showcases a student's uniqueness and passion beyond the boundaries of traditional school activities, making their application more memorable and compelling to admissions committees.
Structuring extracurriculars on the actual application
Although limited space is provided on the application, there are several strategies to utilize in order to present extracurriculars in a way that maximizes the information that the college gets about students and their passions. To start, prioritize significant involvements first on the list. Be specific about each activity, emphasizing your roles, responsibilities, and any leadership positions held in a concise manner. Categorize activities thematically to showcase diverse interests and skills, and highlight impactful roles separately. Emphasize the impact of contributions, showcasing personal growth and the positive effects on the club, organization, or community. Use action-oriented language, be honest, and prioritize relevance to future goals or passions. Seek feedback for clarity and proofread meticulously before submission. Finally, make sure to stay honest throughout this process, with the activities themselves and the time spent for each one to give an accurate representation to colleges.
The importance of awards
Awards can also play a big part in making a college application stand out. When highlighting awards on a college application, focus on quality over quantity by emphasizing the most relevant and impactful honors. Describe each award succinctly, detailing its significance, the granting organization, and the level of competition. Provide context by explaining the criteria for selection and any standout achievements that led to receiving the award. Quantify the impact where possible and illustrate your personal growth or skills development resulting from the recognition. Connect the awards to your future goals, demonstrating how they align with your aspirations and contribute to a coherent narrative. Awards such as AP Scholar should typically be avoided if possible as they don’t require much thoughtful action and are extremely common, it is important to focus on the unique and more impactful honors and awards received.
Additionally, stay authentic and humble in the descriptions, avoiding exaggeration or embellishment. Organize multiple awards chronologically or by relevance, creating a clear and impactful presentation. Utilize additional sections if available to elaborate further on particularly noteworthy honors. Seek feedback from mentors or counselors to ensure clarity and proofread meticulously to present your achievements accurately and effectively on your college application. Ultimately, effectively detailing your awards enhances the depth and credibility of an application, showcasing accomplishments and contributions to the admissions committee.
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