What are the factors that affect the decisions of the college admissions committee? Some carry more weight in the application process than others. These are ranked from most influential to least. Challenging Schedule; Academic Performance;  Standardized Test Scores Consistent with Grades;  Rank in Class;  Passionate involvement in Extracurricular Activities;  Contribution to Community through Volunteer Activities;  Application Essay – Personal Statement – Authenticity, reflective, impact-oriented;  Letters of Recommendation– Counselor/Teacher;  Tipping factors that can play a role in admissions;  Interview;  Family Ties and Legacy;  Internships/Portfolios/Jobs – Out of School Activities;  Geographic Diversity;  Academic Diversity;  Extracurricular Diversity;  Ethnic/Racial Diversity; and  Socioeconomic Diversity.