Take the most challenging courses your high school has to offer. Make sure you take four years of English and math and at least three years of science and social science. Take three or four years of a foreign language, and always sign up for honors or Advanced Placement (AP) classes, when available.
Follow your passions and pursue your hobbies. Thousands of qualified applicants apply to Williams each year, so your community involvement, artwork, musical talent or job experience could set you apart. Think about what you're interested in and how you can get involved in your school and community.
Study hard in high school, especially during your junior and senior years. If you take AP classes, make sure you study for the AP tests; these scores back up your academic transcript.
Take the SAT or ACT and two SAT subject tests no later than the spring of your junior year. If necessary, repeat these tests in the fall of your senior year. Williams considers your best individual scores for each test. Send SAT test scores to code 3965 and ACT test scores to code 1936.
Start working on your application the summer before your senior year. Write drafts of your essays and think about who you will ask for recommendations. Williams College requires two teacher evaluations.
Ask your teachers for recommendations within the first month of school. In addition, have a teacher, parent or friend look over your application essays. Williams requires the Common Application, so you can use these essays for other schools, too.
Consider applying for Early Decision. Early Decision requires you to commit to Williams if you are accepted, but improves your chances of admission. As of 2011, Early Decision applications must be postmarked by November 10th.
Send in your completed application by January 1st if you choose Regular Decision.