9 Factors to Consider When Finding a College That Fits

If you’re a high school student, you’re probably starting to think about what happens next, and that could include higher education. The four years you spend in college are particularly formative ones, so making the right choice is critical. After all, those are years — and tuition dollars — you won’t get back, so you’ll want to make them count. To help you find the best fit, let’s explore the top nine factors to consider when looking at colleges.

1. College Majors and Minors

Every college offers different academic programs. Some focus on liberal arts, while others emphasize the sciences. Think about the career path you want to pursue and make sure to choose a college that supports your goals. 

Also, look at how the curriculum is designed. Some schools have a core curriculum that every student follows, some read “great books,” and others have no distribution requirements at all. A college admissions consultant can help you investigate various kinds of curricula and determine which type suits you best.

2. Campus Location

The location of your college will play a vital role in your college experience. Are you seeking a tranquil experience in a small remote town? Or maybe you want the big-city experience of a locale like New York? Make sure you’re applying to colleges that match the type of location you’re wishing for.

Location will also determine the weather you’re living in during college. Perhaps you’d like to enjoy warm temps with time on the beach in a place like San Diego. Or you may be more interested in vibrant fall colors and a winter wonderland. Don’t apply to only Ivies if temps below 70 make you miserable.

3. Public vs. Private

There are a number of reasons to consider whether you want to attend a public or private institution. Public universities are funded by state governments and tuition, while private universities are funded mainly by student tuition, endowments, and alumni donations. Furthermore, public schools are typically larger than private schools. 

These differences impact the college experience, as well as the type of financial aid that may be available. Private colleges typically have higher tuition, but they often offer exceptional student scholarships to help offset the greater expense.

4. Financial Aid

Paying for college is a major factor to take into account when choosing the right school. In addition to the cost of tuition and room/board, it’s crucial to explore what financial aid is available at each college you consider. Different schools offer different types of financial aid, such as merit-based and need-based aid. 

Look at the scholarships each college offers, and understand the amount of student loans you will need to cover your costs. Grants are also important to factor in when exploring different institutions. If you’re eligible for federal Pell grants, for example, you may be able to apply to higher-cost schools without incurring ruinous amounts of debt.

5. Extracurricular Activities

You might consider athletics key to your college experience. If you’re hoping to cheer on a winning football team, make sure the college you choose includes a top sports program. Or perhaps you’re interested in Greek life. Then you’ll want to investigate colleges with a robust fraternity and sorority scene. 

Additionally, your life on campus can be influenced by the clubs your school offers. If clubs, student government, and other extracurricular activities are important to you, explore these before settling on a college. Lastly, contemplate the type of campus life experience offered in your college’s location. If you’re a foodie or a would-be clubber, a school in a town with two bars and a diner won’t be your ideal.

6. Class Sizes

Different colleges have varied class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios. This factor will play a significant role in how you experience college academics. There is a big difference between sitting in a lecture class with hundreds of students and a small seminar with group discussion opportunities. 

Class size will impact your relationship with your professors and how much interaction you have with your peers. So delve into these statistics before deciding on the best college for you.

7. Internship and Research Opportunities

Gaining experience and making connections is an essential part of your academic journey. When exploring colleges, look into what types of research opportunities and internships are available. Career center support and study abroad programs are also important to take into account. 

These experiences will shape the way you build your resume and your network upon graduation. Forging connections with peers, professors, and alumni is vital to creating a strong career network. Doing so can help you successfully reach professional goals after college.

8. Diversity and Accessibility

Some colleges are more inclusive and accessible than others. Explore these factors before settling on a college to call home for four years. For example, if you have a physical disability, it’s imperative that you think through how you will get around campus. Do the colleges you’re looking at have wheelchair-accessible classrooms?

Diversity in a range of areas is also important to think about. For example, a private Christian institution may not be as friendly to LGBT students as a more secular public college. If diversity and inclusion are essential to you, choose a college that aligns with your beliefs.

9. Safety

Unfortunately, not every college campus is as safe as others. Consider this vital point when determining the college you want to attend. A campus can be a dangerous place if it doesn’t have the right resources to keep you safe.

When visiting schools, ask about the types of safety measures each one has in place. Is there a dedicated police force on campus? What is the crime rate in the surrounding neighborhood? Knowing the school’s policy and safety reputation can guide you toward a safe school.

Navigating the Path to Your Ideal College

Finding the right college can be a daunting process. Traveling to different schools and researching their offerings takes time and effort. You can narrow down what is most important to you using the factors outlined in this article. With these points in mind, you’ll be able to find the best college fit.