How to find the right school (for YOU!)

What to think about when looking for schools:

Majors + Learning environment- different schools have more reputable majors in a field than others. This usually means that their professors and school resources prepare students better in a major than some other schools. If you know what you want to study, it’s important to find a school that is a good academic fit and also has the staffing/resources that will help your student be successful during and after college. For students going in undeclared/undecided, some schools have better resources to help students decide what they ultimately want to study.
Location- how far away is too far away? How close to home is too close? These are important boundaries to establish when searching for the perfect school. Additionally, do you want to be in a city? A closed campus? All of these factors give a very different feel-- it's a good idea to see schools that offer each to see which one feels like home.
Size- colleges/universities come in all shapes and sizes. Some schools have fewer than 1000 students, while others have over 60,000 students. Much like Goldilocks, it's good to see a small, medium, and large school to see which size fits just right for you.
Affordability- the price of college is an extremely important decision for the whole family. Some colleges meet 100% of demonstrated need, while other colleges do not. Some schools are cheaper than others. Some schools offer more aid than others. Another important consideration is how much education will be needed after the completion of a bachelor’s degree (e.g. if a student wants to pursue a Master's degree, law school, medical school, etc.); if that is the case, putting the cost of continuing education after college is an important added layer to the college search.
Sports/activities (campus life) - in addition to studying/learning at college, you'll also be living there! It's important to find a school that has the social life/activates that will keep you happy for all four years you're there.
Diversity- wherever you end up, it's important to feel represented. Race/ethnicity, religious, LGBTQ+ and other diversity data can be found on Naviance Links to an external site. and on a school's website.
Housing options- it's important to not have to worry about getting to and from classes while you're in college. It's also important that you feel comfortable where you are, if you're living on campus. Different colleges/universities have different accommodations when it comes to living on campus. When you're not in class, you'll be in your dorm/apartment or somewhere else on campus. Make sure to check out the living/other on-campus accommodations when touring schools.
Additional support programs- did you have an IEP/504 in high school? Some colleges/universities have better academic support programs/resources than others. Do you need ESL support? Some schools have that! Planning on going to law or medical/vet/dental school after college? Some schools have programs to help you do that. Whatever you need out of your college experience apart from your degree, certain colleges/universities will have you covered better than others.

Tips on touring schools:

Start EARLY!
Make a budget
Check out the dorms/library/cafeteria
Get a feel for your academic department
Talk to current students/staff
See more than the campus -> check out the surrounding town/city
Document your visit -> take pictures/notes; make a pro/con list