Every year colleges report on which Admission Factors are most important in admissions decisions. And every year the undisputed winner is the high school transcript -- the official record of your academic achievements from grades 9 through 12.  Your accomplishments outside the classroom -- testing, extracurricular activities, and application quality -- are also considered.

Academic Record

When you apply to college, your school will send an official copy of your transcript along with a profile of your school to put your performance in perspective. (Click for sample transcript and sample high school profile.) 

Use this handy Transcript Review Form to assess your high school record and then compare it to requirements for high school graduation (Seattle Public Schools), University of Washington admission, and more selective college admission.

The courses you choose really matter.  A 3.8 earned in challenging courses like AP, IB, or Honors is more impressive to colleges than a 4.0 in easy classes.  This is because challenging high school coursework is an excellent preparation for college!  Here's a link to information about course choices that will impress the colleges AND get you ready to succeed once you are there!

Time is precious in high school, so any steps you take to stay organized and focused will help make you a better student and give you more time for developing yourself as a person.

High school is a good time to sharpen your study skills (click for a printable Study Skills Chart).  Read challenging books to enhance your reading comprehension and build your vocabulary.

Your academic efforts will also pay off in positive recommendations from your teachers and your school counselor. 

Extra-Curricular Activities

Committed and sustained involvement in extra-currricular activities, including community service and employment, can be "tip" factors that give you an edge over equally academically qualified candidates. A special talent -- in athletics or the arts, for example -- can also help in admissions. Colleges are also looking for evidence of leadership, because it highlights a student's maturity and responsibility. 

Create a resume to give colleges a broader picture of who you are, both in the classroom and out!

If you don't have much time for extra-curricular activities during the school year, take advantage of summer break to get involved outside the classroom!  Check out these summer programs and summer service learning opportunities!

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