How to Ace Your College Application

HOW TO =DACE= your COLLEGE APPLICATION 1. STAND OUT 2. DOUBLE UP What makes you different than thousands Take both the SAT and ACT, and take them of other applicants? Highlight your strengths more than once. That way, you can improve and accomplishments, your experiences in your weaker subject areas. Plus, you may and extracurricular activities, what you've be able to "superscore" your SAT results- learned and what you hope to learn-it's okay some colleges take the highest to promote yourself; just be honest and try to emphasize why you're a good fit for the particular university you're applying for. Score in each section, rather than the overall sScore from your most recent test. 3. BUDDY UP 4. WRITE ON Get to know your Your application essay is your time to shine. But you don't admissions have to be the next Shakespeare to write a successful our writing to-the-point essay. Just try to make but also engaging, sharing your story in a counselor. He or she will be able to give you meaningful way (and in correct English!). the inside scoop on what the school is looking for and how to approach your application 6. COACH 'EM essay. Someone who knows you personally is much more likely to be your advocate during the review process. Reference letters are another important part of your application package. Pick teachers or other mentors who will give you a personal, positive recommendation. And it's okay to "coach" them-let your references know 5. DOUBLE CHECK what character traits or leadership qualities you would like to emphasize; just make sure to give them enough time to write a good letter. They'll appreciate that you made their job a little easier! 7. DON'T DAWDLE It's true: the early bird does get the worm. And in terms of your college application, getting it in as early as possible Your application essay is going to will only improve your chances of being accepted, have to do all the talking for you. getting the best scholarships, and scoring So make sure it's polished-run a prime spots in campus housing. spell check and grammar check, and have an extra pair of eyes proofread it before you send it off. For more information, contact the Admissions team at northwestu.edu/admissions/counselors.