College Admission Process

List of 10 items.

• High School Transcript

  The transcript is the most important document students will submit with their application. Colleges want to admit students who will be successful in the classroom and evaluate grades and consider course rigor, in light of courses available.
  
  Fifth Form is often considered to be critically important because it is the last full year that colleges will view in the application, but maintaining consistency through the Sixth Form year is vital. Most colleges evaluate applications after the first-term Sixth Form grades are received. In June, the College Counseling Office sends final transcripts to colleges to verify successful completion of the Sixth Form.

• Rank in Class

  Westminster School does not rank students beyond the top ten, based on Fifth and Sixth Form report cards. During the application process, high school transcripts are sent to colleges accompanied by a Westminster School profile, which includes grade distribution for the Fifth Form year and an explanation of our grading system.

• Grade Point Average

  Westminster calculates a cumulative grade point average based on the student’s Fifth and Sixth Form years. Our cumulative average is unweighted and based on a 100-point scale.

• Testing

  While most colleges continue to require the SAT or ACT, they are not the most important criteria in the selection process. The SAT is designed to test critical thinking skills in critical reading, writing, and quantitative areas. Many able students do not test to their true capability. However, high scores and a weak academic record often indicate a student whom the admission committee may perceive as a greater risk. In an increasingly competitive landscape, the SAT offers colleges a way to distinguish among strong applicants.
  
  All Fifth Form students are encouraged to take the SAT and ACT at least once. It is recommended that students take the test they prefer at least twice and usually three times: twice in the Fifth Form and again in the Sixth Form. Most colleges will select the best scores regardless of administration date, while a few will select your best “composite” from a single sitting. The College Counseling Office will work with teachers and advisors to assist in the decision making process.

• English Language Proficiency—TOEDL and TOEFL IBT Test

  Colleges require the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) for all students whose native language is not English. The TOEFL is a computer-based test with limited availability in the United States. International students are strongly encouraged to take the TOEFL in their home country during the summer. Students who are unable to test at home should register for the TOEFL through the College Counseling Office for assistance in making an appointment and coordinating transportation, if necessary.

• The Application

  The Common Application is accepted by more than 1,000 colleges and is most commonly used at Westminster. Some students use the Coalition Application, powered by Scoir and accepted by over 150 colleges and universities. Finally, some students apply directly through institutional/system applications, such as the UC application in California. Whatever the format, the application allows students the opportunity to distinguish themselves within the applicant pool. Throughout the application process, the College Office supports students and families by facilitating individual, group, and parent meetings, as well as scheduled webinars and workshops.

• The College Essay

  A well-constructed, carefully composed essay is a student’s best opportunity to have their voice heard. Fifth Form English classes work on the college essay during the spring, and college counselors provide feedback on essays over the summer. Prior to the start of school, all students will share a draft of their essay with their counselor.

• College Counselor Recommendation

  College counselors write School Letters of Recommendation based on information gleaned from students, parents, teachers, and academic records, in order to present students in the context of their Westminster experience. In addition to key facts, counselors highlight elements of the transcript, and, when necessary, explain any extenuating circumstances to enable an admissions committee to view students in the full context of their experiences. These letters are an honest and accurate assessment that emphasize student achievement and strengths.

• Teacher Recommendations

  Westminster faculty know their students well and take their responsibility of writing recommendations seriously. Although college requirements can vary, most schools want two teacher recommendations from the Fifth Form year. Students are encouraged to choose teachers who know them best and can speak to their performance within the classroom.

• Extracurricular Activities and Work Experience

  Colleges want to understand how students choose to spend their time outside of the classroom. Some students may be tempted to think that “more = better” in terms of activities, but a long list often has less meaning than the level of commitment and contribution to a particular club or activity. Students are encouraged to talk with their college counselors about how best to present themselves in relation to their contributions.
  
  A common misconception is that colleges are looking for the most well-rounded students. This may be better understood as colleges seek to build a well-rounded class. There are pockets on every campus for the scholar, the soccer goalie, the saxophone player, the alumni child, and so on. Students should present themselves honestly and thoughtfully with an eye toward what makes you “you.”