GEAR UP Tennessee

Preparing for College

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. Encourage your child to challenge himself or herself academically and to be involved. A supportive parent can make a world of difference in a child's education. Talk with your child's school counselor to determine what courses he or she should take to meet graduation requirements and college-entrance requirements.