1. Understanding How Colleges Review Applications
Ben Siegel Admissions Advisor University of Washington Bothell

2. Common Admissions Factors
Washington CADRs
English (4 years)
Math (3 years)
Senior Year Math-Based Quantitative course (1 year)
Social Sciences (3 years)
Lab Science (2 years)
World Language (2 years)
Fine Arts (0.5 year)
Cumulative GPA
SAT or ACT Test Scores
Personal Statement
Running Start = Freshman
Overall Grade Point Average
Test Scores (SAT or ACT)
Personal Statement and or essay
Grade Trends
Senior Year Curriculum
Quality of Overall Curriculum
Cultural Awareness/Diversity
Community Involvement
Extra-Curricular Activities
Leadership Roles
**Again, each school is different and you will want to communicate directly with the school you are applying to for detailed information.
Western Washington University

3. Additional Factors Activity Log Short Response Essays
Additional Comments
Grade Trend
Challenging Coursework
Letters of Recommendation
Interviews
Seattle University

4. Eligibility vs. Competitiveness
“Eligibility” is:
“Competitiveness” is:
What the school needs to see
Demonstrating that you’re ready to benefit from what the school has to offer
What the school wants to see
Demonstrating that you’re deserving of one of a limited number of spaces
Note: These are used not only for admissions but for honors programs and scholarships

5. Strengthening Your Application
Grade Trend
Take courses that meet or exceed HS requirements
Personal Statement
Focus on YOUR Story.
SHOW, don’t tell.
REFLECT on your experiences
Use the Additional Comments Section
Convey your potential contributions
Demonstrate Interest
Take the SAT/ACT more than once
UW Bothell

6. Application Platforms

7. The Application Timeline
Who reads applications?
When can you expect to hear back?
Early Action, Early Decision, Rolling Admissions, Regular Decision
Applications Open
Decisions Released
Confirmation Deadline
Application Deadlines
Sept 1
Nov 1
Feb 1
March 15
May 1

8. Honors Colleges

9. Interviews Who will interview you?
Admissions Counselors
Students
Alumni
When and where will interviews happen?
Opportunity to engage in a conversation

10. Questions?
Ben Siegel   (425)