What Are Extracurricular Activities?
Extracurricular activities are the things you do outside your regular classes: clubs and societies, sports, music and theater, student government, volunteering, part-time work, caring for family and personal projects. The word means "outside the curriculum," and these activities shape your skills, friendships and interests alongside your studies.
What counts
Almost anything with commitment and growth can count. Typical categories include:
- Academic and subject clubs, such as debate, robotics or a science society.
- Arts and performance, such as band, choir, drama and visual arts.
- Athletics, both team sports and individual training.
- Leadership and student government.
- Community service and volunteering.
- Work experience, including part-time jobs and family businesses.
- Family responsibilities, such as caring for siblings or relatives.
- Personal projects, such as building an app, writing or running a channel.
Why they matter
In admissions, especially in the US, extracurricular activities show what you care about and how you spend your time. Selective colleges look for depth, such as sustained involvement, leadership and impact. In the UK, personal statements and some programs also look for relevant experience.
For employers, activities show initiative, teamwork and time management. For you, they offer community and balance, which can improve wellbeing and academic performance when kept at a sustainable level.
How to choose
Pick activities because you enjoy them or want to grow. Aim for consistency and progression over time, and consider taking on responsibility. Balance commitments with study, rest and work, since overload can hurt grades and health.
Describing them
On applications, be specific and concise: state your role, the time you spent and what you achieved. Use numbers where they are real and avoid exaggeration. Explain how you made a difference, solved a problem or developed a skill.
Related terms
See honor code, service learning, varsity and honors program.
Frequently asked questions
Do extracurricular activities matter for college admission?
They can, especially at selective schools that read applications holistically, where they show interests, commitment and character. Depth and impact usually matter more than a long list.
Does a job count as an extracurricular activity?
Yes. Many applications ask about work and family responsibilities, which show time management and commitment. Describe your role and what you learned.
How many activities should I do?
Quality matters more than quantity. A few activities in which you take part consistently and grow tend to be more persuasive than many shallow ones.