It’s time for you to apply to college … along with 17 million other high school students. Here are qualifications that can help you stand out.

1. A transcript that includes rigorous courses
AP, International Baccalaureate and honors courses or classes you can take at a community or local college for dual credit while still in high school count big with admissions reps.

2. Grades that show academic growth
When colleges see that your high school grades are consistent or improving, they will be confident you’ll be successful in college.

3. Solid scores on standardized tests
The scores you receive on your SAT or ACT should be consistent with your high school performance.

4. Passionate involvement in extracurriculars
A University of Southern California admissions officer says USC is determined to attract the most diverse students to their campus. In this case, “diversity” means well-rounded students interested in many subjects.

5. Participation in community service
It’s easy to sleep in on a Saturday morning. So if you’re involved in your community instead, it’s vital you put those activities down in order of importance and explain what being involved did for you as a person. Doing so shows integrity and motivation to make a difference.

6. Employment, volunteering and a good work ethic
Colleges look at employment records as a historical view of how you follow through and get along with authority.