Checklist for College

Planning

• Research careers.
• Identify your academic interest early in your high school years.
• Have your high school counselor assist you in selecting the proper curriculum.
• Take at least one of the assessment tests.
• Check with your high school counselor for test schedules.
• Begin asking teachers, counselors or employers if they would be willing to write a letter of recommendation.
• Attend college fairs in your area.
• Visit colleges you are interested in or check out their Web sites.

Choosing a College

• Narrow down your list to 3-5 colleges at the beginning of your senior year.
• Visit the campus, take a tour, sit in on a class or two and stay overnight.
• Talk with students on campus.
• Talk with professors in your chosen major(s).
• Talk to a coach in your chosen sport.
• Find out if the college has job placement services.
• Research the college's reputation and graduation rate.
• Talk with the financial aid office about your aid package.
• Let all colleges you applied to know about your final decision.
• Find out if you will be required to pay a deposit to reserve your place.