Pursuing a degree in computer science can be a fantastic choice for students who love problem-solving, technology, and innovation. Computer science (CS) graduates are in high demand, and the field is known for job prospects and competitive salaries. However, getting into a CS program can be challenging. In fact, these degrees consistently rank among the top 5 most competitive programs to gain admission to.

If you’re interested in applying to a CS program, it’s essential to start preparing early and to make yourself stand out in the application process. Below, we’ll explore some effective ways to boost your chances of being accepted into your dream computer science program.

Build a Strong Curriculum

One of the most important ways to prepare for a computer science degree is by taking the right courses in high school. Colleges look for students who excel in math and computer science courses, as these are critical to success in a CS program. Prioritize classes like calculus, statistics, computer programming, and computer science in the most challenging curriculum that is appropriate for you and available to you (IB, AP, A Levels, etc.). Strong grades in these subjects show admissions officers that you’re ready for the rigors of a CS program.

Gain Real-World Experience

Experience beyond the classroom can help differentiate you from other applicants. Internships, paid jobs, or volunteer positions related to technology can help you stand out. And you don’t need to be writing code for a big tech company – demonstrating any experience in the tech world can be valuable.

Don’t have access to formal internships? Consider getting creative. For example, you can volunteer to teach older adults how to use computers and smartphones, or help non-profit organizations improve their websites. These experiences show initiative, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to make technology accessible to others.

Develop Extracurricular Interests

Admissions officers love to see students who are passionate about tech inside and outside of school. Joining school clubs, such as robotics, coding, or tech clubs, can highlight your interest in the field. Additionally, working on personal projects, like building a simple app or participating in hackathons, can give you concrete examples to include in your application.

If your school doesn’t offer a lot of tech-related clubs, don’t worry. It may be possible to create a club at your school, and there are also plenty of online resources where you can learn new programming skills, participate in coding competitions, or even earn certifications in fields like web design, cybersecurity, or artificial intelligence.

Consider Your Career Path

Computer science graduates have diverse career options. When preparing your application, it can be helpful to have some ideas about where you want your degree to take you. For example, are you interested in finance, cybersecurity, government, education, web design, software engineering, AI, or another area?

Having a clear idea of your career goals can help guide your choices in coursework, internships, and even the colleges you apply to. It can also make your application essays more focused, showing admissions committees that you’ve thought seriously about your future.

Apply to a Range of Schools

Because computer science programs are highly competitive, it’s crucial to apply to a wide range of schools to increase your chances of being accepted. This means including a mix of reach, target, and safety schools on your college list. Many excellent CS programs exist beyond the most well-known universities and colleges, and these schools may offer unique opportunities that fit your goals.