You need to be in the top 10 percent of your graduating high school class to get into one of the eight Ivy League colleges. To get to the head of the class, you need to study, work hard and get good grades beginning in your freshman year. Attending all of your classes and paying attention isn't enough to do well. Get enough sleep so you are well rested and alert. While in class, if you don't understand something, ask for clarification. Reading your textbooks, taking and reviewing your notes and doing your homework will help you score well on tests, which will help improve your grades and overall grand point average (GPA).
The Scholastic Aptitude Test is a reasoning exam that measures your reading, writing and math skills in comparison to others. Your score is an important part of your college application, as it determines what Ivy League college you might get into. In fall 2009, freshmen entering Yale University scored on all three tests between 2120 and 2390 on the SAT while students entering Cornell scored between 1610 and 2000. Preparation is key when studying for the SAT. There are several books by the College Board, Princeton Review and Kaplan that you can purchase to review for the exam. In addition, you can also pay for a prep course. If you don't score well on the test the first time around, you can retake the SAT, which is given seven times a year.
Writing at least one essay is part of the the college application for most colleges, not just Ivy League schools. The essay gives admissions counselors an opportunity to learn more about the applicant than just comparing grades and extracurricular activities. When you write the essay, choose a topic that describes what is unique about you and describes how you stand apart from everyone else applying. The admissions office is looking for information about you in the essay and is looking to see if you will be a good fit for the school. If you have to write multiple essays, write about different things. Show your personality through your writing. Before you send your application, proofread your work for any errors and have someone else, perhaps an English teacher or guidance counselor, read it too. They might be able to spot errors you missed.
Look for opportunities where you can get involved. Admissions counselors are looking to admit not just the smartest students, but also the most well rounded. Get involved in a school club, volunteer for a community organization or try out for a sports team. Don't get involved just add something to your resume. Find something you enjoy doing or a cause you are passionate about and get as much experience as you can. What you do outside of school work can make you stand out on a college application. It might even earn you a scholarship to help pay for your tuition.