As a high schooler, you probably have got excited over the thought of applying to your dream college. Going through the college application process is one of the most nerve-wracking yet exciting experiences for a student. There are tons of factors to show excitement over. For example, moving to a new state, sharing a dorm with others, and the freedom of living as a whole. But, nothing always goes as planned. Getting into a college comes with many challenges like living and college expenses and waiting for getting accepted. This time can be very stressful and overwhelming, but here are 4 factors to consider when applying to college: 

4 Factors to Consider When Applying To College

1. Expectations 

First and foremost, go over the expectations you have set repeatedly. Most of the time, students apply to a college and expect immediate acceptance. But it isn’t the reality. The colleges go through a list of factors to determine your capability before accepting you into their program. There are many probabilities of getting an acceptance letter, being put on a waiting list, or rethinking your own choices due to your financial situation. Therefore, sit down, and have an honest one-on-one conversation with yourself to decide on your future career’s goals, the budget you are willing to spend, and the time required to make your goals achievable. 

2. Cost 

Going to a college requires stable financial support because college is all about expenses. Everything from tuition fees, applications fees to the dorm room’s costs will come with a heavy price to pay. Besides, you will also have to pay for transcripts and college standardized tests. Although, it depends on how many colleges you are giving admissions in. In addition, if you plan on getting into a college in a faraway city, you should prepare yourself for all the extra charges that will go into visiting home. According to a study, 15% of students couldn’t apply to college due to college expenses and the inability to pay the application fee. The study also found that over 80% of people spend under $300 when applying to different colleges.

3. Location 

When applying to different colleges, you probably have realized that the location and costs are correlated. So depending on where you want to go for college, your expenses will show enormous fluctuations. If you wish to move to another state for college, your college expenses will be vastly more than if you were to study in your nearest college. Another factor that needs attention is how much you will visit home. If you want to see your parents at home every weekend, try to get into a college nearest to your home. But if it’s a few hours’ drive away, it will be a perfect choice as well. 

Let’s move on to the last out of 4 factors to consider before applying to college.

4. Reality 

It is very usual for a high schooler to create imaginary scenarios about their upcoming exciting college life. But it is better to stay within reality. It is nerve-wracking when waiting for the acceptance letter from colleges. That period of time is filled with continuous stressing and what-ifs. You may find yourself asking these questions. Did I send admissions to enough colleges? Will I get accepted in any of them? Do I have any backup school? You will doubt your capabilities a lot while going through this time but don’t forget that it’s normal to feel this way, and your emotions are valid.