What awards do college admissions look for?

National and regional awards can greatly enhance a college application, demonstrating to admissions officers a student’s dedication, talent, and leadership. Here are some notable awards that are well-regarded by colleges:

National Awards

1. National Merit Scholarship Program: Recognizes high-achieving PSAT scorers. Being a semifinalist or finalist is an impressive academic accolade.
2. Scholastic Art & Writing Awards: Recognizes outstanding visual and literary work by students. Earning a Gold or Silver Medal, particularly at the national level, is highly respected. Learn more.
3. Regeneron Science Talent Search (formerly Intel STS): Prestigious for aspiring scientists; national recognition in this competition is significant for students interested in STEM fields.
4. National History Day: A research-based competition that culminates in regional, state, and national levels, showcasing strong academic research and critical thinking skills. Learn more.
5. Institute of Competition Sciences: The Institute of Competition Sciences offers competitions in STEM (science, engineering, mathematics, computing, space, and aerospace), entrepreneurship and business, arts and creativity, environmental and sustainability challenges, innovation and technology, humanities and social sciences (history, debate, public speaking), sports and gaming (eSports and athletic design), and interdisciplinary challenges across grade levels from elementary to high school. Learn more.
6. USA Math Olympiad and American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME): Being selected or earning recognition in math competitions like USAMO or AIME is excellent for students with a STEM focus.
7. Conrad Challenge: Encourages students to find innovative solutions to global challenges, highlighting entrepreneurship and creativity. Learn more.
8. National Economics Challenge: National recognition can showcase academic skills and interest in economics and social sciences.
9. Google Science Fair: An international competition open to students who present their scientific projects. It’s well-regarded in the STEM community.
10. American Mathematics Competitions (AMC): High scores or qualifying for the American Mathematics Olympiad (AMO) is an indicator of strong mathematical ability.
11. Science Olympiad: A prestigious competition focusing on various scientific disciplines. Success at the national level is particularly impressive.
12. National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) Awards: For students involved in debate, placing in NSDA competitions shows advanced speaking and analytical skills. Learn more.
13. Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF): Prestigious for high school researchers, especially those aiming for STEM programs.
14. National Latin Exam and National French Contest: High scores or medals in these exams show strength in foreign languages.
15. American Legion Oratorical Contest: A speech competition that focuses on the U.S. Constitution. Winning is a prestigious recognition of public speaking skill. Learn more.
16. American Scholastic Press Association: For students involved in journalism, being recognized for school newspapers or yearbooks demonstrates strong communication skills.

Regional and State-Level Awards

1. Governor’s School Programs: Selective summer programs offered in some states. Being chosen to attend shows academic excellence and passion for a specific field.
2. Regional Scholastic Art & Writing Awards: While national medals carry more weight, regional recognition also demonstrates dedication to art or writing.
3. Science Fairs and Olympiads: Winning regional or state competitions, such as those affiliated with ISEF or Science Olympiad, is impressive.
4. State-Level Music Competitions (All-State Orchestra/Band/Choir): Selection demonstrates exceptional talent and dedication in music, which is a plus for students applying for music programs or demonstrating well-roundedness.
5. Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Competitions: Winning at the state level shows strong leadership and business acumen. Learn more.
6. Model United Nations (MUN) Regional Awards: Earning recognition at significant MUN conferences shows leadership, diplomacy, and public speaking skills.
7. Debate and Speech State Championships: Winning at state-level competitions, such as those sanctioned by the NSDA, highlights strong argumentation and speaking skills.

Other Awards Worth Considering

• AP Scholar Awards: Recognizes high scores in multiple AP exams.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) Awards: Recognition for exceptional performance in IB exams.
• Eagle Scout/Gold Award: For Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, respectively, demonstrating leadership and long-term commitment to community service.

Participation in and recognition by prestigious awards, particularly national competitions, showcases a student’s strengths, intellectual curiosity, and passion for particular fields. These awards can set students apart, particularly in selective college admissions processes.