subject: Gaining Admission To Your Ideal College [print this page] Beginning the college process can be a daunting task because there is no fixed formula for getting into college and moreover, whatever combination of courses one studied at high school makes no difference in the success rate of getting admission to your dream school.
Grades, SAT scores, and class rank are certainly looked into, but while doing well in all three may be enough to get you into some schools, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll get into all your choices. In fact, even students with perfect SAT scores and straight A's are sometimes denied admission by some of the more elite colleges and universities.
Here are some tips that will help you navigate the admissions process and succeed in your application.
Colleges are looking for motivated, well rounded students who can show that they have good time management abilities. These are often the qualities that tip the scale in favor of one student over another student who focused solely on their studies. Having extra curricular activities and volunteer work show a drive and a selflessness that appeals to admission counselors who are inundated with more applications than they have the room to accept.
A college application can also be positively impacted by awards, citations and other distinctions earned during high school. Be certain that the admissions committees are aware of such commendations, because colleges are hoping to attract strong leaders, not merely academics.
Recommendations of your teachers and counselors do matter. Get a letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor who thinks you're brilliant and include it with your application packet.
Similarly, if a family member went to your college of choice, you may receive some preferential consideration in admissions and this could count even more if more than one family member attended the college.
Most importantly, start planning early to get into the schools you want. Do your research, collect updated information on the most sought-after colleges and universities and their admission criteria in advance.
Thus, keep these suggestions in mind in order to improve your prospects of being accepted by your school of choice.
