• SEARCHING FOR COLLEGES

     

    A great resource when it comes to searching for colleges is BigFuture by The College Board.  This can be accessed online at bigfuture.collegeboard.org. Their “Make A Plan” feature allows you to input your information, including grade level, where you are in the college search process, interest in financial aid information, whether you are thinking about a 2-year or 4-year school, and what excites you most about college.  From your responses, BigFuture creates an individualized, comprehensive plan that you can follow in order to prepare for college.

     

    Connecting With the College That Is Right for You

     

    It is important to keep in mind that the top rated schools may not be the best fit for you.  In the college search process, fit must come before rank when it comes to evaluating a school.

     

    Why do you want to go to college:

     

    What do you hope to gain?

    What learning opportunities do you need? What are your goals?

    How will college help you achieve these goals?

     

    Factors to consider in choosing a college:

     

    • Type of college
      • two or four-year college?
      • Residential or commuter?
      • Large or small?
      • College or university?
    • Location
      • What area(s) of the country can you realistically consider?
      • What about the relation between location and costs?
      • Are specific interests and goals tied to a specific location?
    • Admissions selectivity
      • What are the admission requirements?
      • Are you eligible for admission?
      • How academically demanding is the school?
    • Costs
      • How much will it cost?
      • What kind of financial aid is available?
      • How do you apply for financial aid?
      • Does the school offer scholarships?
    • Majors and programs
      • Does the school offer the major you want?
      • Does the school offer you the chance to explore several areas of interest?
      • Does the school have internships? Exchange programs? Study abroad?
    • Social Life
      • What is campus atmosphere like?
      • What extracurricular activities are available?