How to Prepare for College

Preparing For College Admission - What you need to know, NOW!

If you are a student, or have a student, in junior high or high school, you've probably thought about college and whether or not you're qualified. The truth of the matter is that most students are not going to get accepted to their first choice school. Either they're not taking the right courses, not getting involved in enough extracurriculars, or simply haven't done their college research.

Today's college-bound students face the toughest and most competitive admissions in our country's history. More and more students are going to college, and university admission standards are being raised as a result. As more and more students get denied from their top choice schools, it's important to know a few aspects that can drastically help you gain admission. Let's take a look at a few!

1. Grades - Obviously, grades are the single most important factor to a college when deciding to offer acceptance. But more importantly, what is a student's specific grade within a specific subject area? For example, if you apply to the School of Engineering at the University of Illinois (one of the best programs in the country)and don't have outstanding grades in both math and science, you will be denied!

Colleges are looking to see that you have the potential to take on the workload and academic rigor of their school/programs. If they don't see it, you'll have a hard time gaining acceptance. Yes, schools will look at overall grades and test scores, but the top tier schools will take a harder look and it often results in a denial if you're deficient in any area. They have to maintain their school's integrity and if you have the potential to compromise that, they won't take a chance on you. They want as close to the "sure thing" as possible.

2. Take the Right Classes - Most students are taking a solid college preparatory curriculum in high school. But, if you want to stand out and make yourself look like a hard worker and a good time manager, try taking a higher level course. Advance Placement or Honors classes are probably offered at your school. Inquire about them, find out what they require and enroll in one or two classes if you think you can hack it. But, be careful! Make sure you're ready for the extra work and time commitment associated with upper-level courses. Biting off more than you can chew will not only hurt your GPA, but it will also hurt your chances at a good college.

To be Continued!