Let’s get picky: A guideline to choosing the perfect college

Factors to consider when you’re making your choice

Choosing a college isn’t just about rankings or where your friends are going; it’s about finding the right fit for you. Your college experience should support your academic goals, match your values, and feel like a place where you can grow and succeed. Here are some tips to help you choose the right college with clarity and confidence.

1. Start with self-reflection

Before you dive into applications or tours, take time to think about what you really want out of college.

• What subjects or career paths interest me most?
• Do I prefer a large university or a small, close-knit campus?
• What kind of social and cultural environment am I looking for?
• How far from home am I comfortable going?
• Do I want to be involved in sports, clubs, or student leadership?

Knowing what matters most to you helps narrow down your choices early.

2. Explore your options

There are nearly 200 public and private colleges in Minnesota alone. You’ve got options, so don’t settle for anything less than what you like best.

• Public vs. private? Liberal arts college vs. large research university?
• Two-year or four-year? Consider community colleges or technical schools, especially if you’re career-focused.

Once you’ve narrowed down a few contenders, find out more details.

• Campus visits: Walk the grounds, sit in on classes, and talk to students. If you can’t visit in person, look for virtual tours.
• Research programs: Does the school offer strong departments in your area of interest?

3. Make a smart financial plan

College is a big investment. When you’re crunching the numbers, go beyond just tuition and consider:

• Housing, food, books, and transportation
• Financial aid options (grants, scholarships, work-study, loans)

Review each school’s financial aid package, and don’t hesitate to call the financial aid office with questions about the net costs. To keep an overview, use a comparison worksheet to evaluate total costs for your top picks.

4. Create your college list

Break your list into three categories:

• Reach Schools: You might get in, so it’s worth a shot.
• Match Schools: Your academic profile fits well.
• Safety Schools: You’re confident about admission and affordability.

Extra Tip: Apply to a mix of schools from all three tiers to maximize your options.

5. Compare key factors

When your shortlist is ready, compare colleges side-by-side based on the factors that matter most to you:

• Majors and academic programs
• Student-to-faculty ratio (class size)
• Retention and graduation rates
• Job placement rates and career services
• Campus culture, diversity, and extracurriculars
• Safety, setting (urban vs. rural), and housing options
• Tuition and fees
• Accreditation status (this affects financial aid and job outcomes)

Extra Tip: Use a spreadsheet to stay organized as you compare.

6. Talk to people who know

Personal insights can reveal what a college website cannot. Ask current students and recent alumni about what life is like on campus, what surprised them, and what they’d change if they could do it over. Gather as much information as you can from face-to-face conversations.

• Pick the brains of friends and family
• Ask your school counselor for advice
• Chat with college admissions reps

7. Trust your gut

Rankings, prestige, and pressure can cloud your judgment. The right school will be one where you can see yourself growing academically, personally, and socially. Ultimately, your instinct is the deciding factor in choosing a college that fits you. So, trust your gut.

• Can I see myself here?
• Will I feel welcome and safe?
• Will I be challenged and supported?

8. Use helpful tools

Take advantage of free, reputable tools as you make your decision.

• College Scorecard: Compare graduation rates, earnings, and costs.
• College Search Tool: Explore colleges and career schools in Minnesota.
• Attend college fairs and watch school overview videos.
• Use checklists and planning guides available from trusted sources.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a college is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with what matters most to you, gather the facts, and explore your options thoughtfully. The right college is out there, and it’s the one where you’ll feel supported, inspired, and ready to take on the future. You’ve got this!