In many cases, a good grade point average (GPA) is essential for college admission. Generally, the more prestigious and well-known colleges, such as the Ivy League schools, tend to have higher GPA admission requirements. Many students who have a low overall GPA choose to apply to smaller, specialized schools where satisfactory marks in subjects relevant to the student's intended major can be sufficient for admission.
The majority of US colleges require students to achieve a certain score on either the SAT or ACT examination. Some colleges also require specialized SAT II subject test scores. Students must verify the specific examination and score requirements of each college to which they are applying.
American students who are applying to schools outside of the U.S. do need to take the SAT or ACT, which is only required by American colleges. However, students who receive high scores on these examinations should find out whether any of the foreign universities will take high standardized test scores into consideration. Although not required in countries such as Canada, strong scores will give American students an advantage over other candidates.
The majority of U.S. colleges require that admitted students have a high school diploma with completed coursework in liberal arts, science, math and English language. Candidates who completed homeschooling programs as opposed to graduating from high school are expected to provide materials such as coursework portfolios or personal recommendations in place of the high school diploma.
Most universities are looking for well-rounded students who not only excel in academics but are also actively involved in extracurricular activities such as after-school clubs, sports teams or volunteering. In some cases, students who do so while maintaining good grades will be accepted over those with a flawless academic record but no extracurricular activities. Those candidates who demonstrate leadership or gain recognition for their involvement, for example the president of the Student Union or the winner of an award for volunteering, will particularly stand out.
Because U.S. colleges and universities are highly competitive, international students applying to the States must meet additional admission requirements. They must demonstrate proficiency in English by meeting the college's TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score requirements. In addition, while they do not need to do so for college admission in their home country, international students must take the SAT or ACT at an overseas test center and, in most cases, meet the same score requirements as American students.