High school is an excited, albeit stressful, time in a young person’s life. While you are enjoying some of the best years with your friends and family, there is also a great deal of pressure placed on many young students to keep one eye on the future. One of the more stressful things that you will do in high school, in fact, is apply to college.
The process of applying to college can be intimidating. Perhaps you have been dreaming about attending a particular university for many years now, and the time is fast approaching when you will learn if that dream will be a reality or not. You might also have some lofty career aspirations for yourself that require you to attend a top-notch university.
No matter what your goals are when it comes to college, they all start with the dreaded college application. The good news is that with the right approach, you can end up submitting a strong application that will provide you with the college offer that you need in order to succeed.
With that in mind, if you are about to start working on your college applications, here are three things that you should know about the process to help you along.
1. You Should Know Your Target Grades and Scores
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Every college and university will have its own range of grades and test scores that they accept students from. Therefore, the sooner you know what you should be shooting for with your own grades and scores, the better.
For instance, if you plan on applying to George Washington University, you need to do some research to find out what they require specifically with regard to GPA and SAT scores. CampusReel’s George Washington University chances calculator can provide you with the information you need. When you know what you are aiming for, you can prepare accordingly and put the maximum effort into your own grades and scores.
2. Extracurriculars Matter
When you fill out your application, you don’t want to only have grades and test scores to report. Rather, you want to be able to showcase who you are and what interests you have by talking about your extracurricular activities.
Even if you don’t plan on going out for a university sports team, showing an interest in athletics by participating in sports as a high schooler can demonstrate your ability to work as part of a team.
3. Applying Early Can Help
Even though your scores, grades, recommendation letters, and personal statement are some of the most important parts of your application, there is something to be said for applying early.
Every university will have a rough number of students they will accept each year. When you know that you have a strong application, applying early can help you to get one of those spots before they are all spoken for.
Have a look to see when early applications are accepted at the schools you are trying to get into. Make sure that your applications are completed and sent off by that date.
