There are several factors colleges consider when deciding whether or not they will accept a student. Some of these factors include:

• course rigor (the difficulty of the courses taken while in high school)
• grade point average (GPA)
• class rank
• standardized test scores (ACT and SAT)
• extracurricular activities
• application essay (if required)

Remember that colleges consider all of these factors as a whole instead of individually. This means that you should not take easier classes just to get higher grades. Those easier classes may not be the ones you need to get into college. Take AP and honors courses, if available, so that you are challenging yourself, but remember your grades are still important. Talk with your school counselor to determine what courses you should take to meet graduation requirements and college-entrance requirements. Also, get involved! Volunteer for a community service project or join one of your school's athletic teams.

To start planning your academic career, visit Plan for college and fill out your own student planner.