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A challenging high school curriculum – Students should challenge themselves throughout their high school careers and aim to take with Advanced Placement classes or Honors sections. Colleges will compare a prospective student’s curriculum with your school profile, and often want to see that the student is taking the most challenging curriculum possible.
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Grades- Evidence of strong grades throughout the high school career is important to many admission offices. Slightly lower grades are sometimes acceptable in Advanced Placement or honors classes, depending on the college.
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SAT or ACT scores – Test scores should be consistent with student grades.
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Activities, Leadership and Initiative - A long-term commitment to activities that demonstrate initiative and leadership are desirable.
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Community Service - A steady commitment to a public service organization is more valuable than a short-time volunteer position.
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Part-time Jobs or Internships - Job experience and or internships help demonstrate student work ethic and maturity.
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Essays - The essay demonstrates the student’s writing ability and tells the reader something about the student that is not evident on the admission application. The College Planning Center of Rhode Island can offer an essay writing workshop at your school to assist students with the process. View our essay writing tips for students here.
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Letters of recommendation –. Recommendations should come from teachers who know the student and the quality of their work. Recommendations from other adults should be limited to work supervisors or coaches. View tips on writing your letter of recommendation.
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Special Activities - Honors, awards or other activities that demonstrate the student’s uniqueness and abilities.