Five Things to Know About Applying to College

1. You can get in. Really.

College admission isn't as competitive as you might think. Fewer than 100 colleges in the U.S. are highly selective, which means they accept less than 25 % of applicants. Close to 500 four-year colleges accept more than 75% of applicants. And open-admission colleges accept all or most high school graduates.

2. It’s about more than test scores.

Colleges care about the work you've done in high school. They look for students who have earned strong grades in challenging courses. They also try to learn about your character by looking at what you do outside the classroom. Take advantage of opportunities like the application essay and college interview to show a more complete picture of who you are.

3. You're in charge.

This is your future─you're in the driver's seat. Zero in on what's important to you and what you want to get out of the college experience. College planning can feel overwhelming at times, but if you self-manage and keep an eye on your goals, you can make it work.

4. You're unique.

Base your choice on how well a college fits your needs. Don't worry about how it's ranked on a list. Don’t choose a college based on a famous name (e.g., the college itself, an alum, a faculty member). The effort you put in and the opportunities you take advantage of once you get there matter more than the college you attend. Once you graduate from college, your achievements and skills will matter most.

5. You're not in this alone.

Family, teachers, and friends are a great resource. Discuss your plans to go to college with them. Ask them for help and advice. Make an appointment with a school counselor to talk about the application process, colleges that will suit you, and options for financial aid.

What else do you need to know about the college application process?

To learn more about applying to college, read Applying to College: FAQs.

For more about searching for colleges, visit How to Find a College That Fits You.