The College Search Guide

Deciding which college to attend is one of the more important decisions that most people will ever make. With more than 4,000 colleges in the United States alone, it is important to have the right criteria in mind when making your choice. Use this guide to help you search through the labryinth of options to find the right college for you.

The best way to begin your college search is to list the items you desire most in a prospective school. A good method of compiling this information is by answering the following questions:

• Will I pay with scholarships, loans, grants, via parents, or on my own? How you will pay for your education is a crucial element of your college search, considering the astronomical fees which can accompany earning a four-year degree. Answering this question first will narrow down your list considerably if you have limited funding options.

• Will I attend school in-state or out-of-state? Choosing to attend an out-of-state school will often entail higher tuition costs. Enrolling in-state offers reduced tuition and could make you eligible for special programs designed to reward state citizens, such as special grants or low-interest loans.

• Will I stay at home with parents, get an apartment, find a roommate, or live on campus?  If you are attending an in-state school it may be more economical to remain at home with your parents while you complete your higher education. Living out-of-state will require living arrangements that will need to work into your overall budget.

• Which schools offer the best program for my major? Your major should be a large determinant of the school you attend because it is important to receive guidance from a faculty of instructors who are specialists in their field. Research different colleges to find out the type of program they offer for your major before applying to ensure that you receive the best possible education.

• Would I prefer a large campus with thousands of students or do I want a more intimate setting? Larger schools more often have flourishing sports teams and a wide variety of activities to indulge in. Smaller campuses may be more academically focused and thereby not offer a vast assortment of fraternities and organizations aimed at social development. Consider your temperament when deciding on a large or small campus.