In the National Association of College Admission Counseling   2008 Admission Trends Survey, 59.6 percent of colleges and universities rated demonstration of interest as either considerably important or moderately important. A student’s demonstrated interest ranked seventh in the highest category of “considerable importance”.

Here are the top six:

1. Grades in college prep courses.

2. Strength of curriculum (how rigorous are the courses you’re taking).

3. Standardized test scores (ACT and SAT).

4. Grades in all courses.

5. Essays or writing samples.

6. Teacher recommendations.

Even if a college or university doesn’t factor demonstrated interest into its decision mix, admissions officials do appreciate when a student understands why their specific college is a good fit for them.

When you push that SUBMIT button…your work is not over. Get out there and meet with the regional rep, alumni, email departments of interest to you, re-visit the campus…finish the sale!