How to Choose the Right College

Today, the decision to attend college following graduation is a simple choice for many high school students, but choosing which college to attend is not quite as easy.

Going to college is a significant investment, not only financially but also in terms of one's time and commitment so it is important to make sure you choose the right school.

Fortunately, there are steps students can take in order to assist them in making this difficult decision.

Step 1: Seek advice from your counselor.

The first stop for those with questions about the various educational options available after high school should be the school counselor. In addition to providing specific information about the different types of postsecondary schools, counselors can help students focus on their needs and goals. A high school counselor also can assist students in collecting and preparing materials for their college applications.

Step 2: Consider more than one school.

Shopping around is always recommended when purchasing a pricey item, and a college education is no exception. To ensure that you make the most informed decision possible, you should contact more than one school to obtain details regarding the various programs offered by the school.

Step 3: Visit your top schools.

If possible, visiting a school's campus can offer significant insight into what the institution offers beyond what can be found online or in the school's promotional materials. By making a visit, you can get a feel for the school and make sure you are comfortable with the facilities, the equipment, the teachers and the students. Typically, you can schedule a visit by calling the school directly. Many colleges also offer guided tours for prospective students and their families.

Step 4: Ask a lot of questions.

Choosing a postsecondary school is not something that should be done blindly. As such, it is best to ask as many questions as possible in order to obtain enough information to help you make your decision. A quality school should be happy to answer any questions you might have about its programs. Questions you should ask prospective schools include:

• What are the school's retention and graduation rates?
  
  Retention rates measure the percentage of students who began their enrollment as first-year undergraduates and continued their studies on through the following year. Graduation rates measure the percentage of students first-year, full-time undergraduate students who complete their chosen program of study in at least 150 percent of the program's length - for example, a graduation rate for a one-year certificate program measures the percentage of students who completed the program within 18 months

• What type of job placement or career services does the school offer students and graduates?

• For vocational or trade schools, how many graduates are able to secure jobs as a result of the training they received from the school?

Step 5: Find out the full cost of attending the school.

The school should provide prospective students with a clear statement outlining its tuition and any fees. If you will need to obtain financial assistance for college, you also should determine whether or not the school is eligible to receive federal funds. Most schools should inform you if they are eligible. You also can contact the U.S. Department of Education's Federal Student Aid office for information on a school's eligibility.