College Exploration Process

Starting the College Search Process:

 Self-Assessment: Before looking at colleges, think about your goals, interests, and preferences.

• What do I want to study? (It’s okay if you're undecided.)

• Do I want a large or small school?

• Quality of education? (Who is teaching the class? Research opportunities)

• Urban, suburban, or rural setting?

• Close to home or farther away?

• Public or private?

• Campus culture: Greek life, sports, diversity, etc.?

• What are the admission requirements?

• How much can you afford to pay for tuition, books etc?

• What are the housing options on campus?

• What is the school’s retention rate and graduation rate?
  
  

Research Colleges: Use reliable sources to create a list of potential schools.

• BigFuture by College Board

• Maia Learning

• Niche

• Use individual University websites to research: 

• Academic programs

• Admission requirements

• Cost and financial aid

• Graduation and job placement rates

• Campus life

Create a College List: Organize schools into three categories:

• Reach: Slightly above your academic profile (GPA & test scores are in the bottom 25%, OR the school’s admit rate is < 25%)

• Target: Well-aligned with your academic profile (GPA and test scores are in the middle 50%)

• Safety: Below your academic profile; likely to be admitted (GPA and test scores are in the top 25%)

Aim for a balanced list (about 7–10 schools total).

Visit Campuses (Virtually or In-Person): Visiting can help you get a feel for a school’s atmosphere.  If you can’t travel, most schools offer virtual tours and online info sessions.  During junior and senior year, take advantage of meeting with college admission representatives when they are at LFHS.

During campus visits, pay attention to:

• Dorms and dining

• Classrooms and facilities

• Student interactions

• Neighborhood and transportation

Understand the Costs: Look beyond sticker price — most students don’t pay full tuition.

• Financial aid (FAFSA, CSS Profile)

• Scholarships (merit-based and need-based)

• Net price calculators on college websites

Track Deadlines and Requirements: Make a spreadsheet to track all relevant information:

• Application deadlines (early action, early decision, regular)

• Required materials (essays, letters of recommendation, test scores)

• Financial aid deadlines
  
  

Meet with Your Counselor at LFHS: Your school counselor can help you

• Identify schools

• Review your application

• Write recommendations

• Navigate financial aid
  
  

Prep for Standardized Tests: Check whether the schools you're interested in require SAT or ACT scores. Many are test-optional.

• Take practice tests

• Utilize test prep services at LFHS during Junior year

• Register early

• Consider retaking for a higher score