What's most important when applying to top-tier schools?

I have the average test scores and grades for top-tier schools. I also do a plethora of academic extracurriculars and a few sports.

What should I work on to make my application stand out? Should I focus on more involvement in my community, improving test scores, or should I focus on the essays for my applications?

I know that I have the potential to go to great schools but I was wondering what tips y’all would have to stand out in the admissions process.

it’s like asking which is the most important leg of a stool. The best applicants are strong in everything

All of the parts of your application have to be amazing. There are hundreds of applicants at each T20 school that have a 36 ACT, a 4.0, hundreds of volunteer hours, tons of leadership positions, and stellar recs. You can only try your best in each category.

Be your best self, whatever that is.

If you don’t get into Princeton, you’ll get into somewhere equally wonderful even if statistically speaking it’s a slightly easier admissions process. Have a balanced list, and spend the next year excelling at whatever it is that brings YOU joy.

Well, for most Americans the top tier college of choice is their state flagship university. They are large, efficiently run and offer academically rigorous courses across the board. What are you looking for that can’t be provided in your state capital?

How do you plan on paying for school, that answer will help you decide where to apply, if your family can pay for it that helps your odds a ton by using ED.

Money. Donate a couple of hundred million and you’re in!