With the holidays looming ahead, everyone is looking forward to spending time with family and friends; and students are looking forward to a much needed winter break from school. But while on break, every high school senior is most likely scrambling to finalize their college applications. Traditionally, seniors who are applying regular decision are focusing on college application preparation during the break time to get everything together for submission after the holidays. And for every college-bound teen, it’s the end of a long process and the beginning of a long wait to hear from the colleges they have chosen.

How do colleges go about choosing students?

The bottom line is that they are looking for students who will boost their reputation among other colleges and make a contribution to their college community. They want to offer admission to students who are interested in them and not just applying because it’s the thing to do. It’s your teen’s job to convince them that they are that student.

What do admissions officers look for in the application?

The first and foremost part of the application is your teen’s overall academic performance. Admissions officers look at the rigor of the courses and the programs that your teen has followed in high school and the quality of their performance. Secondly, they want to be certain if they admit your teen, they will be an asset to their college community. If your teen needs financial assistance, they want to be sure the assistance is worth the dividend: a committed, focused college student. Finally, they will assess the likelihood of attendance—will your teen come if they are accepted for admission?

How many college applications should your teen submit?

Too many gives the colleges the impression that you are not that interested in them. Too few limit the final choices and the ability to compare packages and choose the best fit. On average, applying to 7-8 good fit schools will give your teen options and also enable you and your teen to focus on making each college feel they will accept if offered admission. Colleges keep score of the amount of contact they have with you. If your teen is interested, they should visit their campus, set up an interview, talk with a financial aid officer and make contact with someone in the admissions department. Lack of interest on your teen’s part translates to lack of interest on the college’s part.

The college application should be a snapshot of your college-bound teen.

The admissions officer should be able to learn everything he needs to know by reviewing the application: the transcript, the essay, the recommendation letters, the application itself, and the high school activities. Each part should communicate a different aspect of your teen’s academic, social and personal life: who they are, what they think and what sets them apart from other applicants.

With the applications ready for submission and the feeling of accomplishment, you and your teen can enjoy the holidays together: looking forward to the New Year and the unlimited possibilities in the future.