Deciding where to apply
You’ve done the research and created a college list, but now you have to decide: Where do I apply?
At the Coalition, we’re here to help you make smart choices when it comes to applying to college, and your first choice should always be: Apply to more than one school! In fact, we recommend applying to 6-10 schools, because applying to college means applying to colleges — and we encourage you to consider Coalition schools because of their commitment to access, affordability, and success.
We even make the application process easy, offering an application for our member schools and a simple fee waiver for eligible students. What’s more, once you’ve completed Part 1 of your application in Scoir, you’ve already finished about 70 percent of your application to Coalition colleges!
Here are three main points to consider when deciding where to apply:
1. Programs of study
It’s important to apply to schools — whether they’re two-year community colleges or four-year universities — that not only offer the subject areas that you’re most interested in studying, but also provide you with additional learning opportunities, such as internships, study-abroad programs, and student-faculty research, just to name a few.
2. Academic support and graduation success
You’ll want to apply to schools that challenge you academically, but, at the same time, provide the support you need to succeed, like career planning services, tutoring sessions, and faculty advisors. Remember: It’s not just about getting into college; it’s also about graduating from college.
3. Cost to attend
The total cost to attend a college or university often includes tuition, room and board, and fees for such items as books, student IDs, and parking permits. Don’t let this number discourage you! Based on their financial need, most students receive some form of financial aid – in the form of grants, loans, and/or scholarships — which will make the actual cost to attend much lower.
You should know that the more than 150 Coalition schools offer a wide variety of academic programs and supports, and they’re committed to helping you graduate from college. In addition, they have a track record for helping their students graduate with low to no debt.
Additional Resources
Learn how to apply to selective colleges and universities from the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation.
Explore the benefits of applying to highly selective schools from the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation.
Find your perfect college with College Greenlight.
Find your college fit at BigFuture by the College Board.
