A rigorous high school curriculum that challenges the student and may include AP or IB classes.  Colleges want to know that you’re demanding a lot of yourself.  Take the hardest classes you can.

Grades that represent strong effort and an upward trend. Don’t give up; keep doing your best. Slightly lower grades in a rigorous program are preferred to all As in less challenging coursework.

Solid scores on standardized tests (SAT, ACT). These should be consistent with high school performance.  Pick one of these tests, prepare for it and get a score that accurately reflects your ability. A good score can help you qualify for scholarships too.

Passionate involvement in a few activities, demonstrating leadership and initiative. Depth, not breadth, of experience is most important.  Quality not quantity!

Letters of recommendation from teachers and guidance counselor that give evidence of integrity, special skills, positive character traits, and an interest in learning.  Give your teachers time to write good letters for you.  Make it easy for them to help you.  They’re very busy!  Respect their time.  Request that they serve as a reference at least six weeks before the recommendation is due.  Provide them with information about your accomplishments so they can include specific information in your letter. 

Special talents or experiences that will contribute to an interesting and well-rounded student body.  Colleges are less interested in well-rounded students and more interested in students who are outstanding in one or two things.  Actually, colleges prefer ‘pointy’ students to ‘well-rounded’ students

A well-written essay that provides insight into the student’s unique personality, values and goals. The application essay should be thoughtful and highly personal. It should demonstrate careful and well-constructed writing.  If a college requires an essay you can be sure they’re going to use it in their admissions decisions.  Your essay is your last chance to show your value to the college. 

Demonstrated enthusiasm, often exhibited by campus visits and an interview, showing an interest toward attending the college.  Some ways you can show the college that you’re interested in them even if you can’t visit campus:  find out who your admissions counselor is and call and email him/her with questions you have, check their website frequently and tell them about activities on campus that sound exciting to you, let them know about any new accomplishments you’ve achieved since you sent in your application. 

Out of school experiences, including work and community service that illustrate responsibility, dedication, and development of areas of interest.  College need to know that you spend your time on activities other than going to the mall, playing video games or text messaging your friends.

Demonstrated intellectual curiosity through reading, school and leisure pursuits, and more.  Let them know about books you're reading, concerts or art exhibits you're attending, lectures you've gone to in the community.  Public libraries are great places to find these opportunities.