There’s no question that getting into a top college requires a competitive application. However, this doesn’t always mean being at the top of your class, perfect test scores, and belonging to every club. Colleges look for well-rounded applicants who are a good fit for the school, such as those who challenge themselves at a college-prep high school and show improvement and initiative. Whether you are just starting high school or are already looking at colleges, be aware of the following misconceptions about applying to college. 

3 Myths About Getting Into College

1. You Need Straight As

Maintaining solid grades improves your chances of getting into college, but college admissions committees realize that grades are assigned differently at every school and that certain classes are more challenging than others. Therefore, the context in which you received your grades matters. Colleges want to see that you’re challenging yourself with college-prep high school courses and taking classes that align with your abilities. Getting a B in an honors class will impress colleges more than an A in a grade level or lower class. 

2. You Need Perfect Test Scores 

Many colleges have made test scores optional for applicants and place significantly less weight on them than in the past. Even schools that still require SAT or ACT scores only consider them as one part of the application package. They understand that a test doesn’t always reveal all your talents and academic abilities and that it only represents your abilities at a particular moment in time. 

Instead, colleges are looking for applicants who have unique qualities they can bring to the school and submit an application that sets them apart from others. Even if you don't have stellar test scores, your essay, transcript, and extracurricular achievements can still be enough to get you in. 

3. You Need to Be Involved in Everything

Many high school students get involved in as many activities as possible to impress colleges. However, colleges want to see depth when they look at your extracurriculars. They want to see commitment and involvement over time, as well as a progression of leadership. If your participation in each group was merely surface-level, you won’t be able to demonstrate these qualities. If you can’t be involved with many activities because of other responsibilities, that’s fine. Explaining that you took care of a relative or worked to help your family will often impress colleges as much as being on a team.

Attending a top-rated college-prep high school can help you get into your preferred college. For an excellent private school education, choose Saint Joseph High School in Metuchen, NJ. Serving Middlesex, Essex, Hunterdon, Union, Somerset, and Monmouth counties for over 50 years, this all-boys Catholic school provides quality education and opportunities on their beautiful 70-acre campus. To apply, visit their website or call (732) 549-7600.