- Although the SAT is not as prominent as it used to be when it comes to getting you into college, it's still important. Most colleges have minimum requirements and might also tie scholarship offers to particular scores--generally the higher the better.
- How you do in your coursework is important. Like SAT scores, a minimum grade point average is often required, and the number of available scholarships will go up in corresponding fashion to your grades. GPA isn't everything, however.
- Letters of recommendation from your teachers or other important mentors in your life can go a long way toward compensating for lackluster grades or SAT scores. Pick the teachers and people who know you best, and talk with them about why you want them to recommend you.
- Most colleges want you to write an essay for them, with a common theme being "Why do you want to attend this university?" Get into what attracts you to the school, be it the teachers or courses. (Note: because it's a "party school" is not something to mention.)
- Then there's the application itself. Sometimes this will be a simple affair; other times it can be multiple pages. This is the part in which you fill out all of your information and what you send in, along with that application fee.
- Note that scores, grades and other requirements will vary from university to university. Some schools have higher requirements, and it's best to check with each college's admissions office to find out exactly what the school wants before beginning the application process.
