Carleton Admissions: What are the key factors?

Hey everyone, I'm currently a junior and have recently started looking at colleges. Carleton College seems really interesting, but I'm not sure what they look for in applicants. What are the key factors they consider during the admissions process?

Hello! Carleton College is indeed a great institution to consider, and it's good that you're starting your search early. When it comes to the admissions process, Carleton, like many selective liberal arts colleges, takes a holistic approach to evaluate applicants. Here are the key factors Carleton considers during admissions:

1. Academic performance: Your high school course rigor, grades, and class rank (if available) are important factors. Carleton values students who challenge themselves by taking rigorous courses such as AP, IB, or Honors classes, and who perform well in them. Your GPA and the context of your accomplishments within your school will be considered.

2. Standardized test scores: Though Carleton adopted a test-optional policy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, they still accept and consider SAT/ACT scores if submitted. Do remember that at a selective school like Carleton, you generally want to showcase your strengths in as many ways as possible, so it would likely be wise to consider still submitting a test score. For detailed guidance on how to navigate test-optional policies, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional

3. Extracurricular activities: Carleton seeks students who are actively engaged in their communities and demonstrate leadership, teamwork, or passion. They value diverse extracurricular activities, including clubs, community service, sports, or other pursuits. Quality over quantity is key—focus on activities where you've achieved considerable accomplishments or devoted significant time and effort.

4. Essays: Carleton's application includes a personal statement and supplemental essays that allow them to get to know you better. Use these as an opportunity to showcase your personality, intellectual curiosity, and unique perspectives. Make sure your essays are well-crafted and genuine, and tell a story that’s unique to you. CollegeVine’s blog contains detailed guidance on how to tackle both the personal statement and Carleton’s school-specific supplemental essays:

- Personal statement: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-common-application-essays

- Supplements: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-carleton-college-essays

5. Letters of recommendation: Request letters from teachers who know you well and can speak about your academic performance, work ethic, and personal qualities. Choose recommenders who can provide detailed and supportive insights about you.

6. Early Decision: If Carleton is your top choice and you're sure about attending, applying Early Decision could be smart, as the acceptance rate is typically higher during this round. You want to be positive Carleton is the right school for you, though, because Early Decision is a binding commitment—if you are accepted, you won’t be able to weigh your other options.

Overall, Carleton looks for well-rounded applicants with strong academic performance, engagement with activities, and solid personal qualities. Make sure each component of your application highlights your strengths and passions. Good luck with your college search!