The Most Important Factors in College Admissions: Insights from NACAC
How much do grades really matter? Do you have to take all of the AP classes? Does your essay need to be as creative as that viral one about the letter “S”?
Every year, The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) surveys hundreds of colleges to discover the answers to these questions. In this article, we’ll take a look at the most important college admissions criteria based on NACAC’s most recent college admission criteria survey (2023).
1. Academic Performance
High School Grades (GPA)
According to NACAC, high school GPA is one of the most significant factors in college admissions. Of the surveyed colleges, over 75% considered GPA to be a “considerably important” factor in admissions, the highest rating on the NACAC scale. This emphasis is reiterated among all of the top universities, such as Stanford University whose “primary criterion for admission […] is academic excellence.”
Course Rigor
Almost as important as grades, course rigor ranked “considerably important” for nearly 64% of surveyed universities. What does this mean for you? Typically, it means you should take as rigorous a courseload as you can manage while maintaining good grades.
Did you know that the Common App’s Counselor School Report tells admissions committees how many AP classes are offered by your school? Colleges will know exactly the degree to which you took advantage of your school’s challenging course opportunities.
2. Standardized Test Scores
SAT/ACT Scores
While less important, SAT and ACT scores are considered “moderately important” by 25% of institutions. As major universities reverse their covid-era test-optional policies, it’s important to start preparing for this important admission criterion.
3. Personal Essay
Essays and Personal Statements
Over 65% of universities said personal statements are “moderately” or “considerably” important, making it one of the most important factors in your admission.
Even more important at top universities, college admission essays are an opportunity to set yourself apart from a pool of highly-qualified individuals. The good news here? You still have full control over your application essays. Unlike GPA or test scores, which may not have room or time for much improvement, crafting a compelling application is still within your sphere of influence.
4. Letters of Recommendation
Teacher and Counselor Recommendations
Letters of recommendations are another important factor, with 50% of schools categorizing them as either “moderately” or “considerably” important. Consider these letters as an opportunity to stand out: can your recommenders, who have taught thousands of students, attest to your unique brilliance?
5. Extracurricular Activities
Involvement Beyond Academics
Finally, extracurricular activities provide the content for incredible essays, supply you with mentors who craft wonderful letters of recommendation, and are, in and of themselves, considered “moderately important” by nearly 45% of universities.
More than this, extracurricular activities can provide you with a sense of purpose and fulfillment while nourishing your passions and curiosity.
Conclusion
There are so many important factors in the college admissions process, and it’s important to remember that application review is a holistic process. Because each student comes from a unique life experience, no set of advice can suit everyone.
As a college consultant, I help students strategize at every step of the process, with their own personal contexts in mind. If you’re interested in pursuing college application support, please feel free to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you!
