So you're applying to college ...

Congratulations on reaching this exciting step in your life! We know that this is a stressful and confusing time, but think of it this way, you'll be moving out soon! We"ll do our best here to help you out with the process and make this as painless as possible.

So where do we begin?

Let's start at the big picture: The admissions process is an opportunity for colleges to evaluate you as a whole person and select students who will best thrive and succeed at their particular institution. More importantly nowadays, colleges are selecting students who will succeed in the real world. There are a variety of metrics you will be evaluated on to paint a clear picture.

These include but are not limited to the following:

1. Grade point average (Are you a performer in the classroom?)
2. Class Rank (How do perform relative to your classmates?)
3. Standardized tests (On a normalized and national level, how do you compare to others?)
4. Difficulty of coursework (Did you challenge yourself during high school?)
5. Recommendations (What do the adults in your life think of you?)
6. Activities/Sports (What do you do with your spare time?)
7. Essays (Why should we take you and can you write in a convincing manner?)
8. Awards/Recognitions (Have you be recognized for your achievements?)
9. Interviews (How well do you stack up in a face to face meeting?)
10. Socio-Economic background (Are you from a disadvantaged background?)

For the majority of selective schools, there is no single equation that will determine if you will be accepted. Statistics on admitted students are published annually but these statistics do not take into account additional variables such as if you are a recruited athlete, a legacy applicant, or applying early decision versus regular admissions. The statistics also do not incorporate non quantitative metrics such as awards, recommendations, and activities. Additionally, the intent to enroll in specific programs or majors sometimes has different admissions criteria e.g. if you are applying to engineering versus as an English major.

So really, how will I be able to tell if I will get in?

There is no sure bet looking at numbers alone. A greater emphasis among selective schools is being placed on your character and personality in addition to the high academic bar. These schools today are not just trying to create a well rounded class, but a student body filled with superstars and leaders who will help shape the future.

The best way to determine if you will be admitted is to look at yourself from the perspective of an admissions committee. For selective schools, once you hit the bar academically, how do you standout from your competition? Do you have unique achievements or demonstrate leadership? Each individual school weighs specific metrics differently. In fact it may be possible for you to compensate for a less than perfect academic record if you have done something unique or demonstrated effective leadership.

Our site gives you the unique perspective of seeing how you stack up against fellow applicants and previously accepted or rejected applicants. After examining students it should give you an idea the weight each of your individual achievements or metrics hold.