When selecting colleges to apply to, it is essential to remember that national college ranking lists can only tell you so much. The fact is that you don’t always know the ranking criteria and whether it is based on things that apply to your education needs. Therefore, if you want to create your own college ranking sheet, here are the main factors to consider.
- Academics – The first thing you need to determine is whether the college even has a program that meets up with your desired major or future career.
- Extracurriculars – Does the school offer the extracurricular programs you are interested in. Whether you want to play a particular sport or just do some volunteer work in your downtime, be sure that the school offers the options you want.
- Housing and transportation – Will you be able to stay on campus? If not, is there affordable housing nearby? How will you get to and from school?
- Location – Do you like the area where the school is located? Is it an appropriate distance from home (for some, a closer school is optimal, but others want to be as far from home as possible)?
- Price – You are probably going to be taking out at least some student loans to go to school. How big do you want those loans to be?
- School and class sizes – Think about your own comfort and how you learn best. Some want the experience of a massive school, and others prefer a quieter learning experience.
The Help You Need Planning for Education
College Planning Source is here to help! Call 858.676.0700 today, or you can request an assessment online. And don’t forget about our free webinars on various college admissions and financial topics.
