What Colleges Are Really Looking For

Strong grades and test scores matter, but they’re not the whole story.

Top colleges look for students who show curiosity, leadership, initiative, and growth over time. They want to admit people, not resumes. That means your student’s unique story—their values, how they spend their time, and what they care about—matters just as much as a transcript.

Admissions officers evaluate students through a holistic lens. They’ll look at the rigor of your student’s course load, how they’ve made an impact in their extracurriculars, and what they write about in their essays. They’re not just scanning for awards or perfect GPAs; they want to know how a student thinks, grows, and contributes to their community.

That’s why it’s critical to develop a cohesive application strategy early. What classes should your student take next year? Are they getting involved in activities that show commitment and passion? What story will they tell through their essays?

Our team at CollegeAdvisor.com includes former admissions officers from top colleges who can help you answer those questions and build an application that truly stands out.

​Get started with a free consultation!​

You’ve Got the Grades, Now Make Your Application Stand Out

Free Webinar May 12th at 8PM ET

SAT score, class rank, AP Exam scores, GPA - your college application is filled with numbers. But those numbers don’t tell the full story. Admissions officers want to know who you are, not just how you perform on paper. That’s where your application narrative comes in.

On May 12th, 2025 at 8pm ET, join College Admissions Expert and former Stanford University Admissions Officer Amber Bisnauth to learn how to build a stand-out application that goes beyond the numbers. During this live webinar, learn how to showcase your unique strengths, passions, and potential beyond the numbers.

Strong academics are a great foundation but at top colleges, they’re just the beginning. You’ve got the grades—now it’s time to show colleges the full picture.

Standing Out to Top Schools

If your student has big college goals—especially for competitive schools like Penn, Swarthmore, or other top-tier institutions—it’s not just about what they do, but how they do it. What sets students apart isn't a long list of clubs or advanced classes alone; it's intentionality, impact, and growth over time.

In today’s admissions landscape, standout applicants often pursue opportunities that go beyond the traditional school day. This might include summer programs, research, internships, or even independent projects that align with their interests. These experiences show initiative and help students develop a deeper understanding of their intended field.

Letters of recommendation also carry more weight than families may realize. Encourage your student to build strong relationships with teachers and mentors who can speak to their work ethic, growth, and character.

Philadelphia-area students are fortunate to have access to world-class institutions and resources. Tapping into those through local universities, nonprofits, or community programs can help a student shine.

Most importantly, encourage your student to be intentional with their time. Top schools look for focus and follow-through. A well-supported plan can make all the difference, and we’re here to help guide your family every step of the way.

Empowering Students to Achieve Their College Dreams

CollegeAdvisor.com is a premier college advising platform that helps families navigate every step of the admissions journey, from building a school list to writing standout essays. We connect students with expert admissions coaches, many of whom are former admissions officers from top colleges, to provide personalized 1-on-1 guidance.

With over 9,000 students served and a track record of success at Ivy League and top-100 schools, we help families reduce stress, build strong applications, and feel confident throughout the process. Whether your student is just starting their college journey or getting ready to submit, we’re here to support them every step of the way.