The primary factors for college admission in the United States are high school GPA and standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT. High school GPA is crucial as it reflects a student's academic performance over four years, providing a comprehensive view of their abilities and work ethic. Typically, a GPA of 3.0 or higher is considered competitive, with higher GPAs, especially in challenging courses, enhancing an application.

Standardized test scores, like the SAT or ACT, are also vital. These scores are used to compare students across different high schools and states. While many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, these scores are still highly valued by many institutions. The average SAT score for admitted students at competitive colleges is around 1300-1400, and for the ACT, it's around 28-32.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) indicates that the average GPA for students admitted to four-year colleges in 2019 was 3.6. Additionally, the average SAT score for admitted students was 1060 (out of 1600), and the average ACT score was 22 (out of 36). These figures highlight the importance of both GPA and standardized test scores in the college admissions process.