Requirements vary widely by school. Top universities like MIT and Harvard typically require a 4.0+ weighted GPA. Mid-tier universities often accept students with 3.0–3.7 GPAs. Community colleges are open-enrollment and accept all students.

College students can apply for federal grants (Pell Grant, FSEOG), state scholarships, institutional scholarships, and private scholarships. The FAFSA is required for most need-based aid. Scholarships.com and Fastweb are free databases for private scholarships.

College admissions considers GPA, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), extracurricular activities, essays, letters of recommendation, and demonstrated interest. Many schools use holistic review. Early Decision and Early Action applications typically have November deadlines.

In 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that race-conscious admissions at Harvard and UNC were unconstitutional, ending race-based affirmative action at U.S. colleges and universities.