Remember: the college decision timeline lists May 1 as College Decision Day for most colleges and programs. Receiving acceptances is a relief, a sign that your work and accomplishments have been recognized, but choosing among college offers can create new uncertainty. And today’s seniors feel pressure to make decisions much sooner. 

With a decreasing population (dramatically named the  “demographic cliff”) and increased applications per student, colleges also feel pressure. On one hand, some students wait longer to commit until they receive the final cost of attendance for their schools. On the other hand, students might perceive urgency to enroll, usually because of housing concerns. While there can be benefits to enrolling before May 1, students should never feel pressured to rush into their college decision for any reason. 

Every college applicant agrees to a statement like this one from The Common Application: “I affirm that I will send an enrollment deposit (or equivalent) to only one institution; sending multiple deposits (or equivalent) may result in the withdrawal of my admission offers from all institutions.” Unless a student comes off of the waitlist at one school and enrolls after enrolling at another college, students should not enroll at more than one institution! 

At Class 101-Dayton, we’ve seen an increase in student concerns and considerable FOMO when peers announce their college decisions. We understand! But, remember, every student, family, college, major, and program creates a unique decision matrix. Don’t rush to commit to a college before you have all of the information! 

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 family, you can still call us with your questions. We are happy to help!