Impactful Extracurricular Activities to Add to College Applications

Why Your Activities Outside the Classroom Matter

With more colleges going test-optional, extracurriculars play a more significant role in admission decisions. According to a 2023 study by the National Association for College Admission Counseling, nearly half of college admission officers (44.3 percent) consider extracurricular activities “moderately to considerably important” in evaluating applicants—especially at selective schools.

Here’s how participating in meaningful extracurriculars can give you an edge in the application process:

9 Extracurriculars That Elevate College Applications

Colleges value different types of involvement, but these nine activities consistently stand out on applications.

1. Student Leadership Roles

Taking on leadership roles in school clubs or organizations shows that you can motivate peers, manage projects, and make crucial decisions. These skills will help you in college and beyond.

If you’ve done this: You’ve learned how to turn ideas into action, solve conflicts, and take responsibility for your team’s success.

2. Community Service and Volunteering

Colleges love to see students who give back. Volunteering shows that you care about the world beyond your school and are willing to take action.

If you’ve done this: You’ve gained a deeper understanding of social issues and worked alongside different communities to create change.

3. Starting Your Own Project or Business

Whether you launched a small business, a nonprofit, or a creative project, taking the initiative proves you’re a self-starter with problem-solving skills.

If you’ve done this: You’ve faced challenges head-on, adapted when things didn’t go as planned, and turned an idea into reality.

4. Academic Teams and Competitions

Competing in events like the Science Olympiad, debate teams, or math competitions shows that you love learning and can apply your knowledge in high-pressure situations.

If you’ve done this: You’ve pushed yourself beyond your comfort zone and experienced the thrill of solving challenging problems.

5. Performing and Visual Arts

Music, theater, dance, creative writing, and visual arts all require discipline and creativity. These activities show you bring a unique perspective and artistic expression to your college community.

If you’ve done this: You’ve learned to take feedback, improve your craft, and express yourself confidently.

6. Sports and Athletics

Playing sports—whether varsity, club, or recreational—demonstrates teamwork, perseverance, and resilience.

If you’ve done this: You’ve pushed yourself to new limits, learned to handle both wins and losses, and developed a strong work ethic.

7. Research and Independent Projects

Conducting research or working on personal academic projects demonstrates intellectual curiosity and problem-solving skills.

If you’ve done this: You’ve experienced firsthand how messy and rewarding research can be, and you know how to think critically and work through challenges.

8. Tech and Innovation

Programming, robotics, and digital design show you’re tech-savvy and ready for the future.

If you’ve done this: You’ve learned how to problem-solve creatively, troubleshoot issues, and build something from the ground up.

9. Career-Focused Experience (Internships, Job Shadowing, etc.)

Getting hands-on experience in a field that interests you shows colleges that you’re thinking ahead and taking steps toward your future career.

If you’ve done this: You’ve already seen a real work environment and connected classroom learning to real-world applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to participate in all of these activities?

No. Quality is more important than quantity. Focus on the activities that align with your genuine interests and commit to them deeply rather than trying to cover all categories superficially. 

How do colleges verify my extracurricular claims?

While colleges typically don’t investigate every activity, they may contact school counselors or activity sponsors with questions. Be truthful about your involvement and accomplishments. Exaggerating or fabricating activities is an integrity violation that can lead to rescinded acceptances if discovered.

How should I document activities without formal recognition?

For self-directed projects or informal activities, document your process and outcomes. Keep a log of hours, take photos of your work, save emails related to the project, and consider asking an adult who observed your work to serve as a reference if needed.

Next Steps in Your College Application Journey

Your extracurricular activities tell colleges who you are beyond your grades and test scores. They reveal your passions, character, and potential contributions to a campus community. As you prepare your college applications, consider how to present these experiences to create a compelling narrative about who you are and what you’ll bring to your future university.