Colleges also compare your high school with other schools in your area. They learn about the courses offered, the grading system, and the performance of students who have gone on to college. Therefore, if you have attended a more challenging school with a proven track record, your grades and class rank may be looked at more favorably. These may include private schools with established records, or specialized schools or programs in your county that emphasize specific subject areas such as science, technology, or performing arts.

Some colleges require a certain GPA or higher for you to get automatic admission. Competitive colleges accept only some of the students who apply. Check the college guide or Web sites to find out the typical class rank or GPA of students these colleges accept.

Many applications ask you to write essays. Some essays are very specific; others are fairly general. You may even be able to choose from several options. Essays serve several purposes. They provide a way for the college to get to know more about you. They also provide a sample of your writing and communication skills.

Sample essay questions:

• If you could go back and change one day in your life, what would you change and why?
• Choose one issue of international, national, or local concern that is of special interest to you. Describe your position on the issue, any personal involvement you may have had with the issue, and how you would resolve it.
• You have just completed your 300-page autobiography. Please submit page 217.
• If you could be anyone from the past, present, or future, who would you be and why?
• Traditions are important to many people and their families. Describe a tradition in your family that is important to you and explain why.

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