Strong test scores (relative to what admitted students have) A specific, honest, and well-written personal statement. A unique extracurricular interest or passion (a “spike,” as we like to call it) Volunteering experience with measurable impact.
How do I make my college application stand out?
14 Summer Activities to Boost Your College Application
- Participate in a specialized high school program. …
- Take a college class. …
- Find a summer program at a local school or community college. …
- Get involved with research. …
- Create your own project. …
- Take a free online class. …
- Get a job. …
- Volunteer in your community.
What do colleges look at most when applying?
What Do Colleges Look For in Applicants? … Colleges use your scores (SAT/ACT scores, GPA/transcript, class rank, and other test scores) as well as your extracurriculars, application essays, and letters of recommendation to judge your readiness to attend their school.
Can you lie about volunteer work on college applications?
Do not exaggerate your level of volunteer, work, or extracurricular experience or the number of weekly hours that you spent engaged in such activities.
What are some important things to prioritize if you’re heading to college?
6 Ways to Prioritize Your Life in College
- Do Your Chores and Errands First. The last thing you want to worry about during a crazy busy week is your laundry, dishes, or groceries. …
- Plan Out Your Week. …
- Take Breaks. …
- Work Hard, Play Harder – But No Means No! …
- Above All Else, Stay Healthy. …
- Keep a sticky note for a reminder.
How do you know if a college wants you?
Ask the College What it Wants
- Contact your college rep. Most colleges have admission staff who interact with potential applicants. …
- Reach out via social media. …
- Meet with your high school counselor. …
- Talk to current college students. …
- Look at the facts about who gets in. …
- Find out more about admitted students.
Can colleges tell if you’re lying?
Colleges know how to spot inconsistencies in your application. They notice when things you say don’t match with what your teachers or counselors say in the letters of recommendation. And colleges won’t hesitate to call your counselor to verify information that doesn’t seem right. They don’t do it to catch you in a lie.
Do colleges check your activities?
Don’t overstate your achievements on your college application! … College admissions officers want to know the real you, and can often spot an overhyped version. Plus, if your application is flagged for an extra fact-check your admission will certainly be revoked on the spot.
Can I lie about college on my resume?
Lying on your resume about your education level in order to obtain a position or advance in your career is NOT okay and chances are, it will catch up to you. … So, to anyone who is looking for a new career now or may do so in the future; remember to be honest about your education and experience.
What activities do colleges like to see?
College Admissions: 10 Extra-Curriculars Colleges Want To See
- Student Government. …
- Debate Team, Mock Trial. …
- Academic Teams: Math, Envirothon, Robotics, Decathlon, etc. …
- The Arts: Music, Theatre, Visual Arts. …
- Internships, Research Opportunities. …
- Diversity Club. …
- Community Service. …
- School Newspaper, Literary Magazine.
Can you lie about extracurriculars on college apps?
It’s never worth it to lie on your college application! It will derail your education down the line if discovered (you’ll get kicked out or have your degree revoked).
How can I get accepted into Harvard?
To have the best shot of getting in, you should aim for the 75th percentile, with a 1580 SAT or a 35 ACT. You should also have a 4.18 GPA or higher. If your GPA is lower than this, you need to compensate with a higher SAT/ACT score.