16 Factors in College Admission Decisions

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) survey, conducted in fall 2023, examines 16 factors influencing college admission decisions, including academic coursework and grades, test scores, application essays, recommendation letters, and students’ “demonstrated interest” in attending the college or university. This comprehensive review provides insight into what colleges prioritize in applicants and offers valuable guidance for high school students and their parents.

Students, College Application, College AdmissionsElite PrepNovember 8, 2024NACACComment

Showcase Your Talents in the College Application Process with Optional Supplemental Portfolios

Many colleges allow students to submit supplemental materials evidencing their special talents and interests even though they do not apply for a major in fine art or performing art. In addition, many colleges also invite students with significant research interests to submit information about their research experience in high school.

Standing Out in the Activities and Awards Section: A Guide for the University of California First-Year Application and the Common Application

To maximize the impact of University of California and Common App “Activities and Awards” section, it is crucial to present activities and awards in a thoughtful and compelling manner. In this article, we will discuss strategies for completing this section effectively, providing examples to illustrate key points.

The Role of Recommendation Letters in College Applications: FERPA and Tips for High School Students

Recommendation letters, written for college applicants by teachers, counselors, or mentors who know the students well, provide valuable insights into their character, achievements, and potential for success in college. In this article, we will delve into the role of recommendation letters in college applications, the implications of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and provide tips for high school students seeking recommendation letters.

Students, College Application, Scholarships, Financial AidElite PrepOctober 21, 2024High School, Seniors, FAFSAComment

College Financial Aid: Unlocking Access to Higher Education

This article explains the various types of financial aid available to students and parents. Additionally, it discusses into the application processes for financial aid, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile, as well as the importance of timely submission.

Students, College Application, Financial AidElite PrepOctober 17, 2024FAFSAComment

Applying to Impacted Majors in College Applications: Strategies for Success

In this article, we will explore the concept of impacted majors, discuss specific examples such as engineering, computer science, nursing, and business administration, and provide strategies for successfully applying to these highly competitive programs.

Students, College Admissions, College ApplicationElite PrepOctober 8, 2024High School, Seniors, College MajorsComment

A Guide to the 8-College System at UC San Diego

UC San Diego (UCSD) has a unique system where the undergraduate experience is divided into eight residential colleges, each with its own distinct philosophy, general education requirements, and campus culture. This structure is designed to provide students with a smaller community within the large university and to tailor their academic experience based on their interests and values.

College Admissions, College Application, University of CaliforniaElite PrepOctober 3, 2024UC San DiegoComment

How Colleges Recalculate Applicants’ GPAs for College Admissions

With the seemingly infinite ways high schools calculate GPAs, many colleges recalculate the GPA in the application review process to provide a standardized way to compare the academic achievement of students from different high schools. In other words, the GPA reported on your high school transcript is not necessarily what colleges use when reviewing your application.

Students, College Admissions, College ApplicationElite PrepOctober 2, 2024High School, GPA, Weighted GPA, Unweighted GPAComment

Building a Well-Rounded College List: A Guide for High School Students

Finding the right fit when it comes to colleges requires careful consideration and research. In this article, we will provide valuable guidance on how to build a well-rounded college list that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

Students, College Admissions, College ApplicationElite PrepSeptember 18, 2024High School, Seniors, College Selection, Creating a College List, JuniorsComment

Mastering the University of California Personal Insight Questions: Effective Strategies for Success

In this article, we will delve into each University of California Personal Insight Question prompt and provide effective strategies to help you tackle them with confidence and create standout essays that capture the attention of UC admissions officers.

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