College Admissions Guide
Sunday, May 3rd, 2009Most students and their parents worry about getting into college, and worry more about getting into a good college. Many people have their own idea as to what colleges look for in potential students and how college admissions decide on who gets to attend their school. Of course, what type of student you are will influence what worries you most about getting into college.
And, while this is true, college admissions look at many factors before making a decision and about 35 to 50% of that decision is influenced by your high school records.
They look to see if you improved academically during high school or if you let your grades slide a little during your senior year. And yes, they do look at the courses you took, whether or not they were challenging to you and how well you handled them.
They also claim that about 25 to 40% of their admissions decision is based on test scores. Both the ACT and SAT test are used to evaluate applicants, showing them how well you would handle problem solving, reading and other basic skills.
This is one reason why SAT test preparation is vital if you want to do well and improve your SAT test score. If you have been active in community services or activities, then be sure to include that information when applying.
Approximately 5 to 20% of a college’s decision may be based on your activities and accomplishments while in high school, believing that if you were a leader in high school, then you are likely to continue to be so in college.
College admissions also base anywhere from 5 to 20% of their decision on essays and recommendations. They want to know what you are like as a person, something that SATS tests cannot tell them. They want to know what is important to you, what type of personality you have and to determine your greatest strengths and weaknesses.
Taking SAT preparation classes and a few practice SATs tests improves your chance of getting a higher grade and that along with taking AP (advanced placement) courses shows the college admissions what you are capable of and that you are serious about furthering your education. This is essential if you already have a particular school in mind, as the grades and whole high school time period are under scrutiny.
By: Kelsey Brennan