Research your Ideal College & University

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Additional College Selection Factors

Additional Discussion of College Factors and Characteristics

Think about the college characteristics that mean the most to you, such as:

• Academic Rigor – How tough is the academic competition?  Do you want to attend a college where students typically score high on exams and will challenge you to do your best?  Would you like to attend a college with a less competitive atmosphere?  Look at the freshman class’s GPA, SAT and ACT Test scores, and their high school class rankings to see who your college classmates will be.
• Location – Is the college the “right” distance from home?  Is it in the “right” setting (urban, suburban, or rural)?  Is it in an area of the country you would like to experience?
• Size – Are the overall college size and individual class sizes good?  Do you prefer a large campus with numerous majors, large classrooms, and a big library or a smaller campus where you will know more people and have smaller classes?
• Academics – Does the college offer the right classes in your major and minor subjects?  What about other subjects of interest?  Does the college offer special programs, like studying aboard and internships?
• Admission Requirements – What does the college require for admission?  What does the college look for in prospective students?  What is the percentage of student applicants accepted?  What are the average GPA and SAT /ACT Test scores of incoming freshman?  Do you have a chance of being accepted?
• Student Life – Are there clubs, organizations, events, etc. that you will enjoy?  How is overall student life outside the classroom?
• Students – Are they friendly?  Will you fit in?
• Facilities – Are the buildings, science laboratories, and libraries modern and accessible?  Where are the laundry facilities?  What is located in the area surrounding the campus?
• Professors – Are professors easy to contact?  Are they helpful?  Do they teach classes or do graduate students teach most of the classes?