After the hard work of college applications, receiving acceptances is a huge relief, a sign that your work and accomplishments have been recognized. However, choosing among college offers can create new uncertainty. Here are a few tips to help make this important decision so that you feel confident to take the next step in your academic journey. 

1. Compare Financial Aid Offers and Costs of Attendance
Colleges will provide accepted students with financial aid packages and the Cost of Attendance (COA) before April 1. This will include set costs (tuition, fees, housing, and meal plans) as well as fluctuating costs like books and differential tuition. The financial information will also include average estimates of personal expenses such as transportation. Consider all expenses and understand if a college “locks” tuition for all four years. If you need help reading through the financial information provided by your college, we’re here to help answer any questions, but you also can call the college financial aid office with your questions.

2. Revisit Your Degree Plan
The step is often missed, but it is important. The same college major at two different universities could look different. Even if you plan to enter college in an “exploratory” or “undecided” major, you will have classes that interest you. Look at the general education requirements as well as the departments that connect to your interests. If you have a major in mind, examine what required courses and electives you are expected to take. Are you excited to pursue these courses? Which of your colleges offers better academic opportunities? You also may want to look at information including faculty expertise, departmental resources, research opportunities, internship and co-op programs, study abroad options, and institutional connections. 

3. Explore Campus Life
If you’re still unsure about colleges after looking at the academics and finances, compare the campuses. Consider what you want in a college experience; look at each campus as your new “home.” Research clubs and organizations. Spend time on campus and in the surrounding community or city. This is also the time to think critically about housing, dining, and transportation. Complete the drive or flight to the campus and add up how many times you might travel to and from school in one year or over four years.

4. Take Advantage of Admitted Student Events
Knowing that students are often weighing competing offers, colleges offer admitted-student events to let prospective students experience campus life for themselves. These opportunities may include meeting with current students and professors. Students and parents can use these events to ask questions about academics, financial aid, residential life, student support, career services, and more. We recommend that seniors return to their top two or three schools before making the final decision. 

5. Trust Your Gut
Trust yourself. After looking into courses of study, cost, and campus life, you have the information you need to take the next step. We know this is an exciting and stressful time for any senior. If you are struggling with the decision, there is nothing wrong with asking for help from your guidance counselor, a teacher or mentor, or family. We are also here to help. If you’re a Class 101 student, we are working through these questions with you. 

If you’re not a Class 101-Dayton family, you can still call us at 937-705-5113 with your questions. We are happy to help if we can.

All seniors and families in our communities are invited to attend our College-Bound Checklist Event. This Free Seminar will be held on April 13 from 1-2 p.m. and  April 15 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Springboro Performing Arts Center, 115 Wright Station Way. As high school seniors graduate and enroll in college, we know there are many details to discuss–from roommates and housing to academic placement and advising to 529 funds, healthcare power of attorney, and insurance questions. Join us for this important conversation!
This is open to the community, so seats are limited. Learn more and RSVP here.