What is the most important factor that colleges look at in making admission decisions?
Colleges tell us that the single most important part of a student’s application is his or her transcript. Admission committees like to see students doing well in the most rigorous course load he or she can handle, which is different from the most rigorous course load he or she can take. Simply put, what you do in class matters a lot. The other big part of your application is your standardized test scores. A combination of high grades and solid SAT, ACT or TOEFL scores will put you in the driver’s seat in this process. Colleges also look closely at your extra-curricular activities, community service, personal statement/essay and teacher and counselor recommendations to help them form a complete picture of you.
