Applying to College - Tips for Choosing a College

Applying to college may feel overwhelming since there are many universities, colleges, and specialty colleges to choose from. This article lists questions that can be used to help you choose a college.

As you prepare for your senior year in high school, you will face the decision of choosing to which colleges you should apply. Choosing a college is an important decision that should be based on a variety of factors.
Things to consider when choosing a school and applying to college:

• What degree programs are offered? If you wanted to continue your higher education, do they offer a master's degree or doctorate degree program?
• What are the costs of tuition and housing?
• What is the cost of living in the area where the school is located?
• What kind of financial aid is available?
• What is the average class size?
• What is the university's ranking (compared to other universities)?
• What kind of extracurricular activities are available?
• What are the campus safety ratings?
• What is the graduation rate?
• What are the statistics of the freshmen admitted from the previous year?
• What is the composite of the student body (including diversity and gender ratios)?
• How large is the undergraduate student body?
• Which major programs is offered?

Many of the answers to these questions can be found on the school's website. You can also get more information through U.S. News by visiting www.usnews.com. If you still need more information, call the school's admissions office. They should be able to answer any questions that you have.