Find your college
What to look for in an academic environment
When choosing a school, it’s important to consider the academic environment. You might want to ask yourself:
- How will I compare with other students applying for admission?
- What majors (or areas of study) does the school offer?
- What’s the typical student-to-faculty ratio?
- Do I perform better in a virtual or in-person classroom?
- Will this school help me reach my future goals?
You should explore the academic resources available at each college, including libraries, research facilities, and faculty qualifications.
Admissions standards
Majors and areas of study
Student-to-faculty ratio
What to look for in a campus
When researching colleges, it’s important to factor in what the campus is like. After all, this could be where you spend most of your time for the next two to four years!
You’ll want to think about the school’s location and your living situation. You’ll also want to consider how big (or small) the school is. Size can affect student life and academics. Whether a college is private or public and whether it offers distance, or in-person learning may also influence your decision.
Read more: Compare types of colleges
There are no bad options here. It’s just a matter of which choice works best for you. As you explore the campus, think through the following considerations.
Distance and commuting
School size
Public or private schools
Virtual or in-person instruction
Other factors to consider
Some other things you’ll want to think about are:
- Cost and financial aid – assess the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses. Research scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities.
- Internships and career services – look into internship opportunities, career services, and job placement rates for your intended major. Consider the college’s connections with local industries and companies.
- Support services – evaluate support services such as counseling, tutoring, and health services.
Remember that the “right” college is a personal decision and what matters most is finding the school that best fits your academic, financial, and personal needs.