FreeArticlesArchive

If you aspire to an Ivy League College, you have your work cut out for you. To say it's not an easy task would be a big understatement.

Only five percent of the students admitted to Harvard this year were not in the top 10% of their high school graduating classes. And, many came from very rigorous independent and public high schools...schools with standards well above average.

They were no slouches on the SAT or ACT either, with the middle 50% of the incoming Harvard class scoring in the top 1% of national test takers.

As you can see, to win a seat at an Ivy, you must successfully compete with some top students. And, you must compete with lots of them...nearly 23,000 at Harvard this year. Of that number, not even ten percent were admitted.

The statistics at other Ivy League colleges are similarly grim. So, is it hopeless? No, just difficult.

Start by knowing two realities. One is that are no guarantees you will be admitted no matter how high your grades and test scores are. Ivy League admissions officers will be the first to tell you the sheer number of good applicants force them to turn away thousands of students who would be successful on their campuses.

You also need to know that anyone who has the credentials to be a legitimate applicant to an Ivy will almost certainly get into a great school and will be fine even if they don't go into the world with an Ivy League degree.

OK, so how do you position yourself for admission to an Ivy? Start by taking the most challenging courses your high school offers. If there aren't enough of them, think about enrolling in some courses at a college in your area.

Take the ACT and SAT early and often. Prepare rigorously, on your own, with a test prep program, and/or with a tutor.

Make yourself what used to be called a "well rounded" person; it's good for you and good for your candidacy. Join clubs or organizations in which you have genuine interest. I repeat, genuine interest. Accept positions of leadership if they are available.

A good or bad essay can be an important "tip" factor for you. And, it's your best opportunity to tell the admissions committee who you are. Don't waste it.

Consider early decision or a similar program if it is available to you. Such options can improve your chances, but they may not make sense for everyone.

Choose carefully the teachers you ask for recommendations. Be as certain as possible that they will recommend you with enthusiasm.

Anything you can do to help others and/or accelerate your personal growth can only help you as a person, and make you at least a marginally more attractive applicant.

Remember that the Ivies want academically motivated, capable, high potential students; students who will do well in college and beyond. They also seek diversity, and students who can and will contribute to the college community because of their leadership skills, special interests, and/or talents.