YOUR ACADEMIC RECORD
In the college admissions process, nothing is more important than a student’s high school academic record. You should know what information is included in this record and how colleges use this information.
Admissions Criteria
Colleges use some, if not all, of the information listed below when determining whether or not to accept an applicant. Individual colleges, however, differ in how they evaluate this information. For example, one college may place a great deal of importance of standardized test scores, such as the ACT. Other colleges may focus on more factors, but the main three are these:
- Grade Point Average (GPA)
- Academic Rigor
- ACT scores
Colleges will review these three criteria using your high school transcript, which details the courses you have taken in grades 9-12. A current cumulative GPA (based on a 4.0 scale) is used. It is crucial your GPA be a 3.0 or above for college admission. For scholarships, a 3.5 GPA is recommended. High schools have “weighted” grades for Honors, AP, or dual enrollment classes. By taking these rigorous courses, you can improve your GPA and even have a GPA higher than a 4.0 at graduation, which is VERY IMPRESSIVE. The minimum GPA you should have is a 20, but again the higher the score, the more opportunity to earn admission and scholarships.
Competitive scholarships, often called merit-based scholarships, often require GPA’s of 3.5 or above and ACT scores of 25 or above. The higher these two numbers, the more money available to you!
If you haven't been able to schedule a one-to-one SENIOR STRATEGY SESSION with Mrs. Buff before the start of school, don't delay! We need a plan of action to get you on the path for a FANTASTIC FUTURE and a COLLEGE DEGREE!
