What Colleges Are Really Looking for in Applicants

6 January 2025

So, you're gearing up for college applications, huh? You've got your high school transcripts, extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters all lined up. But deep down, you're probably wondering, "What are colleges really looking for in applicants?" You're not alone in that thought. The truth is, the admissions process can feel like an enigma wrapped in a mystery. But don't worry—I’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into the specifics of what colleges actually want, so you can feel more confident about putting your best foot forward.

Academics: The Foundation of Your Application

Let’s get the obvious out of the way first—academics matter, a lot. Colleges want to know that you’re capable of handling their coursework, so your grades, GPA, and standardized test scores will be scrutinized. But it’s not as one-dimensional as you might think.

GPA: More Than Just a Number

Sure, a high GPA is great and can open doors, but colleges also pay close attention to the rigor of your courses. Did you challenge yourself with honors classes, Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or dual-enrollment courses? Did you opt for the easy A, or did you push yourself in subjects that stretched your skills? Admissions officers want to see that you’re not afraid of hard work.

Think of it this way: your GPA is like a snapshot of your academic journey, but they also want to see the story behind it. They’re not just looking for perfection; they’re looking for perseverance and growth.

Standardized Tests: SAT and ACT

Ah, the SAT and ACT—the tests that stress out students everywhere. While some schools are moving to test-optional policies, standardized tests still play a significant role in many admissions decisions. But here’s the good news: they’re just one piece of the puzzle.

If you’re not a great test-taker, don’t panic. Colleges will weigh your test scores alongside your GPA and other factors. If you have a strong academic record but a lower test score, you can still shine in other areas. Test scores are more like a supporting actor than the lead role in your application.

Extracurricular Activities: Quality Over Quantity

Now, let’s talk about life outside the classroom. Colleges aren’t just looking for bookworms—they want well-rounded individuals who will contribute to their campus community. This is where extracurricular activities come in. But here's the kicker: admissions officers aren't impressed by a long laundry list of clubs and activities.

Passion and Commitment Matter Most

Imagine you’re the admissions officer reading through hundreds of applications. Would you be more impressed by a student who dabbled in ten different clubs for a year or by someone who spent four years leading one or two activities they were truly passionate about? Exactly.

Colleges want to see depth over breadth. They want to know what lights your fire. Are you passionate about music, sports, or community service? Did you take on leadership roles or create new initiatives? Your extracurriculars should tell a story about who you are and what you care about. They’re not just looking for a “well-rounded” individual; they’re looking for someone who is authentically themselves.

Leadership and Impact

It’s not just about joining a club or activity; it’s about what you do while you’re there. Admissions officers love to see leadership roles, but they also want to see how you’ve made an impact. Did you start a new initiative that benefitted your school or community? Did you mentor younger students or organize a major event?

You don’t have to be the president of every club, but showing that you’ve taken initiative and made a difference can really set you apart.

Personal Essays: Your Chance to Shine

If your GPA and extracurriculars are the skeleton of your application, your personal essay is the heart. This is where you get to show the admissions team who you are beyond the numbers. It’s your chance to stand out and share your unique voice, experiences, and perspective. Think of it as a conversation with the admissions team—what would you want them to know about you?

Authenticity Is Key

The best essays are the ones that are real and authentic. Don’t try to write what you think the admissions team wants to hear. Write about something that truly matters to you. It could be a challenge you’ve overcome, a passion you’ve pursued, or even a small moment that had a big impact on your life.

And don’t worry—your essay doesn’t have to be earth-shattering. Not everyone has started a non-profit by age 17, and that’s okay! What matters is that you’re you. Admissions officers can tell when an essay is genuine, and they appreciate it more than you might realize.

Show, Don’t Tell

One of the biggest mistakes applicants make in their essays is telling rather than showing. Instead of saying, “I’m a hard worker,” share a specific story or example that demonstrates your work ethic. Paint a picture with your words so that the reader can see it for themselves. This will make your essay more engaging and memorable.

Letters of Recommendation: Insights from Others

Your letters of recommendation are another critical piece of the admissions puzzle. These letters give colleges a glimpse of who you are through the eyes of someone else—usually a teacher, counselor, or mentor. But not all letters are created equal.

Choose the Right Recommenders

When it comes to letters of recommendation, the who matters more than the what. Choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths, character, and growth. Ideally, this should be a teacher or mentor who has seen you in action, whether it’s in the classroom, on the field, or in a leadership role.

It’s better to have a glowing, personalized letter from a teacher who knows you well than a generic one from a “big name” who barely knows you. Admissions officers can spot a cookie-cutter letter from a mile away, so make sure you choose someone who can provide genuine insight into who you are.

How to Get Great Letters

Here’s a pro tip: don’t wait until the last minute to ask for letters of recommendation. Give your recommenders plenty of time, and provide them with context. Share your resume, remind them of specific projects or moments that stood out, and let them know what you’re hoping to highlight in your application. The more information you provide, the better they’ll be able to craft a compelling letter.

Demonstrated Interest: Show Colleges You Care

Here’s something you might not have considered: colleges want to know that you’re genuinely interested in attending. This is called demonstrated interest, and it can play a role in the admissions process, especially at smaller schools or more selective institutions.

Attend College Events and Tours

One way to show demonstrated interest is by attending college tours, information sessions, or open houses—either in person or virtually. If you have the chance to visit a campus, do it! Not only will it give you a better sense of whether the school is a good fit for you, but it also shows the admissions team that you’re serious about their institution.

Engage with Admissions Officers

Another way to demonstrate interest is by engaging with admissions officers. Attend webinars, ask thoughtful questions, and follow up with thank-you emails. Colleges want students who are excited about attending, so don’t be shy about showing your enthusiasm.

Character and Values: Who Are You Beyond the Application?

At the end of the day, colleges aren’t just looking for students who are academically gifted—they’re looking for people who will contribute to their community and make a positive impact. This is why your character and values matter.

Integrity and Kindness

Admissions officers want to know that you’re not just smart, but also kind, compassionate, and respectful. Are you someone who lifts others up? Do you demonstrate integrity in your actions? These qualities might not be as easily measurable as your GPA, but they are just as important.

Resilience and Grit

Life isn’t always easy, and colleges know that. They want students who are resilient and able to overcome challenges. If you’ve faced obstacles—whether personal, academic, or otherwise—don’t be afraid to share that in your application (especially in your essay). How you’ve handled adversity can say a lot about your character and ability to thrive in a college environment.

The Bottom Line: Be Authentic, Be You

So, what are colleges really looking for in applicants? They want students who are intellectually curious, passionate, and engaged. They’re not just looking for perfect test scores or a mile-long list of extracurriculars—they’re looking for people who will enrich their campus community and make meaningful contributions.

At the end of the day, the best thing you can do is be authentic. Show them who you are, what you care about, and why you’d be a great fit for their school. The admissions process may be competitive, but remember—you have something unique to offer.