What to Consider When Choosing a College

LOCATION

• Current vs. college environment

• Urban vs. suburban vs. rural

• Recreational and cultural activities in the area

• Opportunities for off-campus job or local internship

• Students should make a list of their must-haves, then research college locations online

LEARNING

• Learning style: classroom learner or learn from experience?

• Want to conduct original research?

• Semester or quarter system?

• Learn well in big classes? Small classes?

• Will you be able to add a minor or double major if that will help you reach your goals?

• Does the university invest in professional academic advisors to help you review your options and stay on track?

• Will you have opportunities to apply what you have learned before you even graduate?

• Try to contact the department or program they’re interested in at each of their potential universities.

COMMUNITY

• Check out what kind of communities already exist on campus. Maybe a certain club or group is important to you. Check if they have a community or resource center specific to your identity (race/ethnicity/gender/sexual orientation)

• Click here for virtual tours page, just scroll down to "Plan a College Visit"

SUPPORT

• Students will take responsibility for themselves and their studies.

• What happens when they need a hand?

• Is there a safety net?

• Consider:

  • Tutoring

  • Advising

  • Career Counseling

  • Enrichment Programs

  • Diversity and Cultural Groups

  • Health and Counseling Programs

  • Proactive Orientations

FINANCIAL FIT

• • FINANCIAL FIT =

    • Total Cost + Financial Aid + Payment Strategies + Outcomes

    • Total cost includes: tuition, fees, housing, travel costs, books and materials, and spending money.

    • Split aid into categories like:

      • Need-based

      • Merit scholarships

      • Any other opportunities offered by the university

    • Include other strategies such as:

      • College savings

      • Parents loans

      • Scholarships from outside organizations

      • College credits earned through advanced placement exams

  • Net Price Calculators can help determine the cost of the college and your EFC (Expected Family Contribution)

    • • • 1. 1. • College Cost- Department of Education

                • My InTuition

      • Some colleges offer 100% of demonstrated financial need, meaning if you or your family have a small EFC

        • Demonstrated financial need is essentially how much financial assistance a family will need to cover the cost of attending college. This figure relies on two separate data points—a family’s expected family contribution and the cost of attending that specific college.

        • Here is a list of schools that offer 100% or a high amount: [LINK] 

Resource