When it comes to university applications, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing extracurricular activities. Different countries and schools have their own criteria for what they value most. But generally, your activities help demonstrate who you are beyond the classroom. Below is some advice on how to approach this part of your application depending on where you plan to apply.

Where Are You Applying?

When considering how your activities will affect your application, it’s important to keep in mind where you’re applying to. Each country has its own approach to activities in university applications, and they can be surprisingly different. For example:

• Canada: Academic focus, emphasis is on grades and test scores. There is little opportunity to discuss extracurriculars, and they don’t play a role in admissions decisions (with some exceptions, like UBC)
• UK: Some focus on extracurriculars, but they need to be directly related to your area of study. For example, if you’re applying to study biology, discussing your time volunteering at a nature reserve or conducting biology research would be relevant.
• US: Extracurricular activities play a bigger role, though they’re not as important as many students think. The CommonApp allows space to report up to 10 activities, but the focus will still be on your academics. Admissions officers are interested in seeing what you do in and outside of school, especially if it’s related to your intended major or career. They also want to know if your interests and involvement might make you a good fit for their campus.

What Universities Look For in Activities

Your activities list shows more than just what you’ve done. Universities use it to understand:

• Your level of involvement in school and community.
• How you seek learning beyond the classroom, especially if the activities are linked to what you want to study.
• Your personal interests and whether the university is a good match for them.

Admissions officers are busy and read thousands of applications, so they are looking for meaningful experiences, not just a long list of clubs or awards. They want authenticity—activities that reflect who you are and what you care about.

Tips for Choosing Activities

1. Follow Your Own Interests
Choose activities that truly interest you. Don’t assume that being part of a particular club will guarantee you a spot at your dream school. For example, joining the National Honor Society (NHS) might seem like a good choice, but it’s more important to be involved in something you’re passionate about.

2. Balance Variety with Depth
It’s fine to have a variety of activities, but focusing on one or two areas deeply can be just as impressive. For example, a student deeply interested in clean water access could show dedication through research, internships, or community projects related to that topic.

3. Extend Your Learning
Universities value students who take learning beyond the classroom. This could mean doing independent research, taking on an internship related to your intended major, or even paid employment in a field you want to study. For example, if you’re interested in business, an internship at a stock exchange or small business could be a great way to show your commitment.

4. Keep It Authentic and Meaningful
Meaningful activities don’t have to be grand projects. What’s important is that they’re useful to you, your school, or your community. For example, if you started a community service project, did you set it up so it could continue after you graduate?

5. Avoid Exaggeration
Honesty is key. Don’t overstate your role in an activity. For example, calling yourself the CEO of a company when you’re really just helping out with a family business could hurt your credibility. Admissions officers appreciate authenticity and integrity.

Keep in Mind

While extracurricular activities can help your university application, remember that they’re not a magic key. What matters most is that your activities reflect your true interests and contribute meaningfully to your growth and community. Focus on what you care about, not what you think admissions officers want to see.