Find the Right Schools

Find the right college for your career goals!

There are lots of schools to choose from, so make it easy on yourself. Follow these steps to help you make this important decision.

Step1: Talk to a counselor

Go to your school's guidance office, library, or career center. Ask the counselors what information they have about colleges and careers.

Step2: Shop around

Start your shopping by finding which colleges best match your needs and goals.

Get information about the current freshman class at the colleges you might want to attend. You can get this information from the college's website, catalog and admissions office. You can get information such as the average high school grade-point average and average entrance test score for it's current freshmen class. Many schools require you to take an entrance test like the SAT or ACT, have a good high school record, and complete certain courses in high school.

Step3: Check the cost

You've heard it before - a college education is one of the greatest investments you can make in your future. A college degree almost guarantees that you will earn more than someone without a degree. But it will enrich your life in many other ways. The people you meet. The classes you take. Experiences of a lifetime.

A vital aspect of preparing for college involves preparing to pay for college. And it can be affordable. While some colleges have higher tuition than others, don't cross any colleges off your list because of price.

Make sure the school gives you a clear statement of its tuition and fees. Remember that any financial aid you get will be applied first to paying the school's tuition and fees. If there is any money left over, the school will give it to you to help you pay for things such as books, food and housing.