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Easy Ways to Start A College Search
Steps to Take to Find a Good College Fit
Getting started on anything is often the hardest part. Luckily, there are a number of easy ways to start finding colleges that are a good fit for your child’s needs and interests.
The first thing to do is sit down and talk with your child. Ask about the types of colleges your child is interested in and any ideas about majors. You know your child well, and may have good insights to add.
Your discussion should include explaining how much time you have to help with the search and admission process. Be sure to talk about any financial concerns that may affect your child’s final list.
Read the Mail
In the fall of senior year, your child is likely to receive loads of college brochures and e-mails. Reading this material helps your child begin to learn about specific colleges — and it may also reveal options your child isn’t aware of.
If your child is interested in a college that hasn’t sent anything, go to its website and download or request a brochure. Signing up for the free Student Search Service® lets colleges and scholarship programs know that your child is interested in hearing from them.
Make a College Wish List
Have your child make a list of any college that seems appealing, from the one on the beach to the one with the best academic reputation in your child’s intended major. Include any nearby college. At this point, there are no limits. Just brainstorm.
Meet with the School Counselor
The school counselor probably has experience sending students to the colleges your child is considering. Encourage your child to meet with the counselor to discuss education and career goals and how to achieve them.
Write Down Wants and Needs
Public or private? Local or far away? Try to find out what your child is looking for in a college. Making a list of factors helps show what's most important. Your child can use these preferences to search for colleges that suit these needs on College Search.
Talk to People Who Went to College
Your child should get the perspective of teachers, relatives and friends who have already gone to college. Their personal experiences can give your child insight into what college is all about. Encourage your child to ask college graduates about their alma mater, or talk to college students when they’re home for the holidays.
Research Colleges
Your child can check out a college's profile on College Search to get all the basic information, such as majors and sports offered, as well as admission requirements and deadlines. Then, check out the college's website to take a virtual tour, see the courses offered and contact students and the admission office.
Visit a Campus
If it’s possible, the best way for your child to get a feel for a college is to visit its campus. If traveling to visit colleges isn’t an option, visit a college that's close to home or one that a friend or family member already attends. It doesn't even have to be one that your child is interested in attending. Visiting helps focus preferences and may even uncover needs your child was unaware of. Can't get to a campus? Your child can take a virtual tour on the college's website.
Go to a College Fair
Find out if there's a college fair nearby. At the fair, your child can pick up catalogs and talk to representatives and other students.
