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From the MCG 2008 edition
You probably already know the "big three" of college admissions criteria: grades, SAT/ACT scores, and class rank. But while doing well in all three may be enough to get you into some schools, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll get into all your choices. In fact, even students with perfect SAT scores and straight A's are sometimes denied admission by some of the more elite colleges and universities. Don't look so shocked! This could actually be good news because it means that colleges are looking at other factors, like the following:

1. Extracurricular Activities

Both in school activities and community activities weigh immensely in the application process. In fact, extracurricular/community activities can often tilt the decision in your favor when compared to other students with equivalent grades/test scores but without much in the way of activities. But don't feel you have to keep your fingers in ten different pots! It's more important to be involved in a few activities and devote meaningful time to them than to have a lot of activities but not devote much time to any. It doesn't matter what the activities are as long as you show some passion and, if possible, leadership for them.

2. AP Classes

While your GPA is a crucial factor, colleges will give extra weight to AP or honors courses. Taking these courses gives colleges the impression that you're ready and eager to learn at the college level. One caveat, however: It's probably not a good idea to take an AP or honors course if you're not confident of getting at least a "B" in it. It's better in most cases to have an "A" in a regular class than a "C" or lower in an AP/honors class.

3. Diversity

Depending on the school, your race, national origin, gender and hometown may play a role in admissions. This is because some schools are looking to have a diverse incoming class. A women-only school that has recently gone coed, for example, may be more likely to accept a male applicant than a female. Likewise, a small school in Vermont may be more likely to accept a student from Alaska than from neighboring New Hampshire.

4. The Application Essay

According to The Princeton Review, highly selective schools generally place more emphasis than average on a good essay. The essay questions on college applications are usually very open-ended, so they're a good place to talk about some experience or aspect of you or your life that was particularly meaningful. Also, if you had some special challenges to overcome, such as any kind of physical or mental issues (including things like depression, ADD, etc.) or family circumstances (divorce of your parents, having to take care of younger siblings, etc.), you should use an essay as an opportunity to explain what you've learned from your experience. While such situations will not serve as an "excuse" for any declines in your academic performance, a heartfelt and well-written piece on your application may be the deciding factor, particularly if you're "on the border."

5. Teacher/Counselor

Recommendations. Got a teacher or counselor who thinks you're awesome? Get a letter of recommendation and include it with your application packet. You'll probably be required to submit at least two.

6. Awards And Achievements

It doesn't have to be a Pulitzer or climbing Mount Everest, but your awards or other recognitions and achievements can weigh into your application's consideration. Good colleges and universities look for leaders and achievers and not just academically.

7. Legacy

If a family member went to your college of choice, you may receive (but don't expect) some preferential consideration in admissions. If more than one family member attended the college, this could count even more. If they give big bucks to the school, consider yourself class president. (Most of us aren't that lucky though!)

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