Graded Written Paper for college applications?

Hi everyone! I'm currently a junior and starting to prepare for my college applications. Some colleges ask for a graded written paper from high school as part of the application process. What exactly are they looking for, and how should I choose the best paper to submit? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Hello! It's good to see that you're being proactive about preparing for your college applications. A graded written paper is an authentic piece of your high school work that gives the admissions committee a chance to assess your writing skills and intellectual abilities beyond standardized test scores and your personal essay. Typically, colleges are looking for papers that showcase your ability to think critically, argue a point effectively, and demonstrate your writing style. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best paper to submit:

1. Choose a paper from a core academic subject, such as English, history, or social studies, as these are most relevant to your college coursework. Avoid submitting papers from subjects like physical education or health classes.

2. Make sure the paper is analytical and insightful, not simply descriptive. Ideally, your paper should demonstrate a strong thesis statement, solid evidence, and a clear argument.

3. If possible, submit a paper with a high grade or positive comments from your teacher to show that it has been well-received.

4. Pick a paper that is relatively recent (preferably from your junior year) to show your current writing and critical thinking abilities.

5. Ensure the paper follows a clear structure, with a coherent introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Proper grammar, punctuation, and syntax are important features to look out for as well.

6. If you have the option, consider submitting a paper related to your intended major or field of study, as this can show your interest and expertise in that subject area.

Before submitting the paper, be sure to remove any personal or identifying information, such as your name, teacher's name, or school name, to comply with application privacy guidelines. It's always a good idea to double-check the specific requirements for each college, as they may vary slightly.

Good luck with your applications!