Choose your top 5 schools and apply for admission

Select a handful of potential schools that you would like to attend, since there is a possibility that you may not into your first, second, or even third choice. If you’re extremely ambitious and would like to apply to as many schools as possible, that can also be beneficial. Keep in mind that many schools require application fees, personal essays, letters of recommendation and transcripts; meaning, costs add up quickly and you could spend a lot of additional time preparing these additional academic requirements. Also remember, you don’t have to enroll with the first school you talk to. Make it a priority to thoroughly research the schools you are interested in.

Financial Aid is available. Apply for it!

Financial Aid, also known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA, is a federal student aid program from the US department of Education.

You could be eligible if you meet the following requirements:

• You are a US citizen

• You are a high school graduate or a GED holder

• You are not in default on a federal student loan

• You do not owe any money to the government for other grants or loans

You received your accepted admissions letter, now what?

Take the time to thoroughly examine and discuss the pros and cons of each school. The school you choose needs to meet your criteria: your interests, your career goals and your financial situation.

Here are some important factors to consider when evaluating each school:

• Degree programs offered

Which one of your chosen schools offers degrees that you are most interested in? Do any of your chosen schools offer graduate or certificate programs? If you decide to change your major or transfer credits to another school, will you be able to do so?

• Accreditation

Are each of your chosen schools regionally or nationally accredited?

• Cost

Is the annual tuition within your financial budget? If not, are there scholarship opportunities available?

• Location

Are you looking for a traditional campus or would you prefer to take online courses?

• Denominational vs. Non-denominational

Are you looking for a denominational or non-denominational college/university? Thoroughly examine how important this factor will be in determining the school that is best for you.

It’s exciting to begin the next chapter of your academic life and it’s great to begin researching prospective colleges. You still want to end your young academic career with the best grades possible, so keep focused. Your future awaits you!