Basic Criteria: Are competently written; are fully developed; avoid clichés; demonstrate an interest in the sciences, mathematics and computer science.

Competitive Criteria: Demonstrate excellent, mature writing skills; the presence of a voice and personal writing style; critical thinking; ownership of the ideas presented; self-awareness; show rather than tell readiness for program; are not "campaign" speeches; does not recite resume in place of autobiographical writing.

Basic Criteria: Are competently written; are fully developed; avoid clichés; demonstrate an interest in the sciences, mathematics and computer science.

Competitive Criteria: Demonstrate excellent, mature writing skills; the presence of a voice and personal writing style; critical thinking; ownership of the ideas presented; self-awareness; show rather than tell readiness for program; are not "campaign" speeches; does not recite resume in place of autobiographical writing.

Issue Essay

Basic Criteria: Demonstrates grasp of the problem set up in the essay question selected and response is generally appropriate.

Competitive Criteria: Demonstrates unusual insight into the problem set up in the essay question selected; in the case of the achievement question, emphasizes the significance of the nature of the work for the respondent that led to the achievement; in the case of the assessment of local educational offerings, provides a sensitive analysis and recommends a creative, original and practical self-initiated solution; in the case of educational influences, employs strong self awareness and critical thinking, and is not a repeat of the other autobiographical essay but focuses on a particular cause and effect.

Academic Record

Basic Criteria: Strong transcript; strong test scores, if available.

Competitive Criteria: Consistent, excellent grades across transcript; high test scores, if available; evidence of availing most challenging courses available

Extracurriculars Resume

Basic Criteria: Reveals some leadership and a trend of interest in seeking science, math and/or computer experiences beyond the classroom.

Competitive Criteria: Reveals leadership strengths, a high level of energy; initiative to create or seek out special activities or opportunities, particularly in science and math.

References

Basic Criteria: Rate candidate above average or excellent in most categories. Are generally positive.

Competitive Criteria: Rate candidate highly across categories. Provide specific evidence of intellectual curiosity, analytical ability, ability to work with others, strong communication skills, initiative, independence.