Stressed about the college application process? It’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of colleges you can choose from, the lengthy application process, and the nail-biting time between sending in your application and getting a response. Remember to take things one step at a time and give yourself breaks. You can do this!! This blog post will cover a few tips to help you find colleges that will be a great match for you.

 

Stay Open-Minded

While it’s helpful to have a general idea of the type of colleges that may suit you, keep an open mind as you begin your search. There are many options out there that may surprise you. You might think that you only want to apply to large colleges, schools near your hometown, or schools with certain extracurriculars. However, your college search may help you find amazing colleges that differ from your previous “ideal college.” Don’t be surprised if you end up wanting to apply to schools you never considered in the past!

 

Seek Advice from Those Who Know You

Share your goals with family, teachers, relatives, friends, and your school counselor. Ask for their input on colleges that might be a good fit based on what they know about you. People you know may be able to recommend certain colleges, financial aid programs, or other resources that can help you. It can be really helpful to get an outside perspective if you feel overwhelmed or confused.

 

Broaden Your Search

At the beginning of your college search, it’s easy to dismiss schools because you think they might be too expensive or too competitive. These assumptions can limit you from reaching your full potential. Financial aid can make college more affordable, and schools often consider more than just grades and test scores in their admissions process. An amazing application essay, volunteer work, and extracurriculars can make a huge difference in your application! If you’re unsure how to start this process, your teachers, parents, or school counselor may be able to help.

 

Do Your Research

Once you have a list of potential colleges, take the time to gather more information. Look into college guidebooks and websites for detailed insights. As you research, make note of any questions you have and seek answers. Besides speaking with your teachers, parents, and school counselor, you can also take the following actions:

  • Exploring student blogs from the colleges you’re interested in
  • Reaching out to admissions officers
  • Asking admissions staff to connect you with current students or recent graduates for additional insight

 

Visit College Campuses

Visiting and touring colleges can make a huge difference in your decision process! You might think that a college doesn’t fit your needs until you visit it and learn more about what it offers. Alternatively, you might love how a school looks on paper, but realize that it doesn’t have the atmosphere you’re looking for when you visit. Plan out your visits in advance, schedule a tour, and invite a few friends! Write out a list of questions you’d like to ask the tour guide before you start.

Here are a few questions that might guide your thinking. For reference, tour guides are usually current students of alumni of the college the provide tours at.

  • What do you love about this school?
  • What is your least favorite thing about this college?
  • Do you have any advice for high school students who are thinking of applying here?
  • What’s something surprising about this school?
  • What would you recommend college freshmen do to make the most of their experience here?
  • Is there anybody you can connect me with in case I have more questions about applying here?
  • Would it be possible for me to attend a class? (Doing this can help you get a feel for the school’s class structure and content.)

You may be surprised with their answers! Tour guides know a lot about their school, and they have may connections to faculty, students, and admissions officers who can tell you more about the college.