The Admission Process

The classes you take now, and the grades you achieve, are the primary factors used in determining admission. Many independent, nonprofit colleges and universities require applicants to have completed courses similar to California public universities A-G requirements. Taking college-preparatory courses—such as advanced placement (AP), international baccalaureate (IB), and honors classes—will give you an advantage in gaining admission to more competitive schools.

High school is also the time to pursue extracurricular areas of interest—but be aware that admissions officers are less interested in lists of activities than they are in finding evidence that an applicant is pursuing interests with passion and dedication, including taking on leadership responsibilities.

Even if you are not ready to attend a 4-year institution right after high school, there are many options for transfer from a California Community College to an AICCU institution.

To learn more, check out these admissions Links:

The Common App
AICCU College Guides
ACT
SAT

Other key components in college admissions include:

Standardized tests

College entrance exams are required for admission at many schools (though there are schools where test scores are optional). Visit the websites for the SAT and ACT to learn when and how to register for these exams, and to find strategies on how best to prepare.

The essay

The application essay provides an important opportunity to show the admissions committee who you really are. Draft your essay early, have others edit it, possibly rewrite and polish it before you submit it.

The interview

While interviewing has become less common, particularly at highly selective schools, it is worthwhile to set up an interview when possible. This is another chance to stand out from the crowd and to highlight extracurricular accomplishments—as well as to ask questions. Be prepared to say what you want to accomplish in college and why this particular school is the best place to do it.

Recommendations

The credentials of the people who write your recommendations are less important than how well they know you, and what they have to say. Choose carefully.