What matters when applying to college?

Perhaps you are wrapping up your junior year and the reality of college applications is sinking in, or maybe you’re just finishing up your freshman or sophomore year and college seems like a distant goal.  Either way, it’s good to be aware of what colleges and universities are looking for in their prospective applicants. 
According to recent studies and data, the top ten most important factors in a student's college application in the last three years are:

1. Grades in college-preparatory courses: Colleges consistently rank grades as the most important factor in admissions decisions. In a 2021 survey by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), 83% of colleges cited grades in college-preparatory courses as "considerably important" in admissions decisions.
2. Standardized test scores: While some colleges have gone test-optional due to the pandemic, test scores continue to be an important factor in admissions decisions. According to NACAC's 2021 survey, 67% of colleges rated test scores as "considerably important."
3. Strength of schedule: The rigor of a student's high school coursework is another important factor. In the same 2021 NACAC survey, 61% of colleges rated curriculum strength as "considerably important."
4. Essay or personal statement: The essay or personal statement allows students to showcase their personality and writing skills. According to the same NACAC survey, 53% of colleges rated the essay as "considerably important."
5. Demonstrated interest: Demonstrated interest refers to a student's level of engagement with a particular college or university. This can include campus visits, attending information sessions, and contacting admissions officers. In a 2019 survey by Inside Higher Ed, 27% of admissions directors rated demonstrated interest as "considerably important."
6. Letters of recommendation: Letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors can provide valuable insight into a student's academic abilities and personal qualities. According to NACAC's 2021 survey, 34% of colleges rated letters of recommendation as "considerably important."
7. Extracurricular activities: Colleges want to see that students are well-rounded and have pursued activities outside of the classroom. In NACAC's 2021 survey, 32% of colleges rated extracurricular activities as "considerably important."
8. Class rank: While not all high schools calculate class rank, if yours does it can still be an important factor in admissions decisions. In NACAC's 2021 survey, 24% of colleges rated class rank as "considerably important."
9. GPA overall: In addition to grades in college-preparatory courses, colleges may also consider a student's overall GPA. According to NACAC's 2021 survey, 20% of colleges rated GPA as "considerably important."
10. Interview: Some colleges offer interviews as part of the admissions process, and a successful interview can help a student stand out. In the same NACAC survey, 6% of colleges rated the interview as "considerably important."​

It's important to note that these factors can vary depending on the college or university, and that some colleges may place more weight on certain factors than others. Remember to stay informed, be organized, and create a plan!