Class Size



Do you require personal attention from your professor? Do you want to be actively engaged in every discussion session? If so then small class sizes are for you. If you would prefer to blend in amongst the crowd, then you won't have a problem with large lecture halls.

Course Offerings

Does the university that you're considering offer the major you wish to take? Can the class schedule accommodate your personal plans for academic achievement? Be sure to thoroughly investigate the course catalog before making any decisions. You need to map out your intended schedule of classes, and pick a focus within your major. If your intended area of study seems to be only thinly covered, you may want to look elsewhere.

Student Body

Is diversity important to you? Do you have race, class, gender, religion and sexual orientation needs that must be addressed? If you have a particular preference when it comes to the make up of the student body, then choose only the campus environments that you will feel most comfortable in.

Location

Does the university's location excite you? Is the campus situated in a place where you can really enjoy life for four years? If you love the nightlife, you will not enjoy a rural college experience, and if you love peace and quite, you may not enjoy the hustle and bustle of big city life. Choose a location that you know you can live with. You don't want to end up resenting your surroundings; it'll have a negative impact on your academic performance.

Finances

How much money are you getting? What are you're loan, grant and scholarship offers like? For very few people, money is no object. For the rest of us, the finance factor is an important consideration to take into account. Don't go with the cheapest possible option, but don't mortgage your future if you don't have to. Try and find a balance between your desires and your pocketbook.

There are plenty of other considerations to keep in mind when choosing a college. Be sure you've adequately identified what it is you want from your college experience. Do your homework, ask a bunch of questions and stay positive. You are in control of your decision. Trust your feelings and proceed with confidence.