There are A LOT of factors that go into finding the right school for you. Start by putting together a list of things that are important to you and your holistic health and happiness.

Do some reflecting. Think about what facets of your world energize you and bring you joy. Match your list up with schools that fit your personal preferences as well as your academic qualifications, majors offered, and financial package. If you don't know where to start, the CCC is always open to you to engage in these conversations. In the meantime, check out College Board's Big Future Step-by-step College Search guide to get you going.

First page of the PDF file: WCANKnowledgeBooks-11th-8

FINDING THE RIGHT SCHOOL

Do you want a 4 or 2-year school?
Can you handle humidity?
Would you mind being in a landlocked state?
Do they have at least 3 majors you would be interested in pursuing?
Do you prefer the quiet suburbs or a more urban environment?
Have you always dreamed of attending high spirited football games?
How much money do you and your support system have to put towards your education?

Information to Consider

Academics

What is the average class size? Largest? Smallest?

How many students in last year’s freshman class returned for their sophomore year?

What was the grade point average for the freshman class last year?

What is the college’s procedure for student orientation and scheduling?

How much reading, writing, class participation is expected?

How is a faculty advisor assigned to students?

What service does the school offer for the student who is undecided about a major?

How many students complete a degree? In what majors?

Are students taught by full time faculty members, graduate assistants, or a combination of both?

What types of additional services are provided by the school at no additional cost to the student (e.g. tutoring, career and personal counseling, developmental reading and study skills workshops, job placement)?

Is there an honors program? What are the qualifications for entry?

What is the average number of years it takes for students to graduate?

What is the process for declaring/being accepted into a major?

What is the profile of those accepted into their major vs. another college?

Admission Requirements

What high school courses are required?

Are entrance tests required? Which ones? What scores are acceptable?

Is a certain grade point average or class rank required?

Will my activities and school involvement be considered?

Is there an essay to apply?

Are there personal interviews or letters of recommendation required?

Do certain majors have special requirements?

What percent of applicants are accepted?

When are applications due?

What is the school’s early action/early decision and deferment policies?

Cost

What is the cost of attendance? Tuition, room and board? Other fees? Use the Net Price Calculator on each college’s website.

How much did costs increase from last year to this year?

Is there a difference in the costs for in-state and out-or-state students?

Are accepted students required to place deposits for tuition and housing? Are these refundable?

Is the public college or university you’re considering part of the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)? Go to http://wue.wiche.edu to see participating institutions and if you qualify for a reduced tuition rate.

Characteristics

Where is the college located (city, suburb, small town, rural setting)?
What is the surrounding community like?
Is the college public, private, church affiliated?
What is the current student enrollment?
What special or unique programs are offered?
Does the college have general education or course distribution requirements?
What is the academic calendar (semesters, quarters)?
What is the extent of their accommodations for students with disabilities?

Social Life

What is the average age of the student body?
What is the male to female ratio?
What percent of students reside on campus? Are freshman required to live on campus?
Are dorms co-ed or single sex?
Do students leave campus on the weekends?
What are the procedures for selecting a roommate?
What are some of the rules and regulations that govern campus and dormitory life?

Student Population

Where do the majority of students come from?
Do most of the students commute or live on campus?
What types of student activities are there? Are sororities and fraternities on campus?
What athletic programs are available?
Is the surrounding community supportive of the college?
Does the college have a campus visitation program?
Is housing available/guaranteed for freshman? Is it available for all four years?
Community service opportunities?

Financial Aid

What percent of students receive need-based financial aid?
What percent of students receive scholarships based on academic ability (merit money)?
What would be a typical financial aid package for a freshman?
What percent of those who apply for financial aid receive it?
Will my financial aid be adjusted if my need increases?
What are the financial aid application procedures and deadlines?
When are financial aid applicants notified of their awards?
How long do they have to respond? Is there a tuition payment plan?
Are there campus jobs available? Are there off campus jobs as well?
How do I find out if I qualify for the work/study program?

RESEARCHING SCHOOLS

It is never too early to begin your search. Exploring different options through websites is one way to begin. You can research schools online through many different Search Engine options, but if you have the time and financial resources, it is recommended you complete an in-person campus visit. Reach out to the Admissions Office at the schools you're interested in to sign up for a campus tour, check to see if they offer perspective student weekends, or ask to get in touch with current students! Sometimes setting foot on campus can completely change your plan!!

INTRO TO COLLEGE WEEK

How to Write the College Essay

Financial Aid Basics

The Year Ahead: Senior Timeline & Tips

Intro to the Common Application

ROAD TRIP NATION

College & Major Exploration via Road Trip Nation

College Search Engines

Xello

Big Future (College Board)

Niche

Navigator

Scorecard

Princeton Review

College Results

COLLEGE FAIRS & COLLEGE ADMISSION VISITS @ LWHS

If visiting in person simply is not an option, do your best to interact with students, faculty and staff members from the schools on your list. Attend the College Rep Visits here at LWHS, check out local college fairs, or check on the Community Events Calendar on the College & Career Center page.

LOCAL COLLEGE FAIRS

Seattle National College Fair

PNACAC - PaCIFIc NW College Fair