A college list is a great tool to guide your research on potential schools to consider visiting or applying to. Keep reading to learn how this approach can simplify the search process and help you find your perfect fit.
How do I start my college consideration list?
A college list is tailored to your unique wants and needs in a college. You can start by reflecting on your most important criteria in a future school. Common factors to consider include size, location, programs, community, and professional opportunities. Having these key preferences in mind can help you better identify your level of interest in schools you come across during your search.
Where can I search for schools to put on my college consideration list?
As a future college student, various resources are available to aid your search process. One of the most accessible tools is college search engines. Engines like the College Board’s BigFuture or The Princeton Review’s College Search allow users to input their criteria and generate relevant, personalized suggestions for you to research further.
In addition, many high schools host college fairs where university admissions counselors or other representatives can speak with students. This is a great way to learn about your options while building connections with university staff.
Another valuable resource at any stage of the college search is your current school guidance counselor. These experts can help students identify potential options based on test scores, interests, and other relevant criteria. Many schools require students to meet with a counselor at least once during their junior or senior year for college or career planning.
Should I only include schools that match my academic profile?
A good rule of thumb is to include a mix of ‘safety’ and ‘reach’ schools that match your criteria. A “safety school” is one you are confident you will be admitted to based on your test scores, GPA, and other admissions criteria. Meanwhile, a reach school has higher admissions criteria or is more selective. Do not automatically discount a school based on its status as a safety or reach; instead, consider how it aligns with your preferences. There is no concrete number of schools to include on a college list but stay intentional with how many you apply to.
How do I maintain my college consideration list?
As you progress in your college search and visit the schools on your list, your preferences will become more refined. Continuously reassess the universities on your list as you gather more information and evaluate how each aligns with your criteria.
Additionally, use your college list to keep track of important dates, such as application and scholarship deadlines. Regularly refer to your document to stay organized and on top of the process, and include any relevant materials for easy access. Also, include any notes from campus visits and additional interactions with admissions or guidance counselors.
Navigating the college search process can be overwhelming, but by building and maintaining a college list, you can ensure you are making informed decisions that set you up for success.
How do I compare one college to another?
We’ve developed a helpful college comparison cheat sheet with a number of factors you should consider as you’re evaluating schools. Download the college comparison cheat sheet.
Is Drake University on your college consideration list?
We encourage you to reach out to a Drake admission counselor to learn more.
