These are the most important criteria when pitting colleges against each other for the honor of receiving your application:

1. Cost

2. Size

3. Students

4. Professors

5. Academic programs 

6. Extracurricular programs 

7. Daily life

This article will outline the details of each and give you specific questions and examples to consider - so read carefully.

What you’ve heard about these 7 essential factors vs. what the reality is, may not be the same. 

If you are having trouble finding info about individual schools, you can always google any school’s “common data set” to get exact numbers on the makeup of the current student body. 

You could also reach out to your prospective school’s college admissions office and use them as the valuable resource they are for prospective students.

Be sure to read to the end for some tried and true advice for what NOT to consider when comparing colleges, too. 

It will probably surprise you.

The Cost

When you look at the numbers, don’t stop at the price of admission. That is never going to be the full story. 

When considering the cost of one college against another, look closely at these three things to develop a well-rounded, personalized picture of the best-fit college for you:

How Much Does The College Really Charge?

Every college costs more than the sticker price listed under “yearly tuition.”

There’s tuition plus room & board, lab fees, books, transportation, etc. to consider.

How Much Financial Aid Does The College Offer?

But what you personally have to fork out might end up being less than the sticker price, even with all the bells and whistles.

Northwestern was able to meet 100% of the needs for their 2020-2021 need-based students. 

According to Harvard, 1 in 5 of their students don’t pay to attend.

Dig around in the details of the numbers to see how much your prospective schools step up to help their student body with money.

What Is The Return On Investment For This College?

Is it a smart investment? What will you get in return for how hard it’s going to be? 

Look at the median earnings of graduates 10 years after graduation. 

Look at the student loan debt. 

Out of the thousands of higher education institutions in the world, you can find one that meets your needs and doesn’t require you to go into lifelong debt. 

If you need help finding that perfect fit college, invest in a little time doing March Consulting’s College Comparison Data Dive. With our expert guidance, you’ll be able to spend a little money now to get a lot of money for college (as well as save yourself a ton of extra time and effort on the complicated college admissions process).

The Size

A classic bigger-isn’t-always-better type scenario. 

Or is it?

Only YOU can say. 

Bigger is not inherently better or worse when it comes to comparing colleges.

When analyzing the benefits, it’s less about the literal size and more about what kind of impact that size has on what you’re trying to accomplish.

You know the stories. 

From Star Wars to Survivor, we can see how strength comes in many forms and the winner of the game is the one who understands which kind of strength applies best according to the particular challenge you are facing.

So when it comes to schools, you want to think in terms of what effect you are seeking in your personal story. 

• Do you need the facilities and resources of a big institution for very specialized training?

• Are you someone who will succeed best in a small community where classes are mostly discussion-based rather than lectures?

• Do you want unlimited departmental offerings because you aren’t sure what to study, or are you only interested in following a more efficient, narrow, prescriptive path?

• Are you the type of student who craves anonymity and independence, or who rises better to any challenges when the professor knows you by name?

Spend some quality time thinking and talking about it with people you trust.

No answer is inherently good or bad. 

There are advantages and disadvantages with every option.

The Students

Much trending research suggests that our peers may have a longer-lasting effect on us than our teachers do. 

That is not to say that teachers don’t matter.

They are essential to shaping our learning journey and should be celebrated for the magnificent service they provide to the world. We’ll talk about how they should be considered in college comparisons next.

In the meantime, however, many students focus more on the teachers than they do on their classmates.

That’s a mistake.

Rank schools for yourself according to the types of students you’ll be surrounded by as well as the professors.

Just think about the psychological questions around social media, group-think, etc. We are only increasingly programmed to react strongly to people we compare ourselves to - which is more often our peers than our teachers.

For example, in a study done by Michigan State University, researchers found that students scored higher on finals if their peers gave them justification for the importance and life-applicability of the class.

We are heavily influenced by our peers. Choose yours intentionally.

• How do you compare to the current student population? Use the common data set stats (ACT/SAT scores, GPA, etc.) to determine not only whether or not you’re likely to be accepted, but whether you’re likely to be bored or in over your depth.

• Will you find like-minded students, people to connect and thrive with? 

• Will you be challenging yourself and able to expand your horizons?

• Does the student body seem to have similar interests to you outside of the classroom?

The culture you immerse yourself in will have profound ramifications on who you become.

The Faculty And Staff

Your mentors, your teachers, your guides. Choose wisely.

• Is there someone you’re dying to work with?

• Do you have a personal connection that could give you a leg-up in quickly building your school network?

• Are they professionals currently practicing in their field?

• Is their curriculum innovative, or does it feel like they’re there more for money than to find the best way to teach you something?

Though certainly not a perfect system, RateMyProfessor.com is a possible resource for looking up what current and past students have to say. 

(Just keep in mind that some people use it purely as a platform for venting or perpetuating an inside joke, so don’t use it as the only measuring stick.)

The Academics

Just as you’re spending time right now crafting a well-rounded application to get into college, you want to choose a college that will give you an equally well-rounded opportunity to get into wherever you want to go next.

Plus give you an enjoyable time getting there.

Put yourself in the mindset of a-few-years-from-now you and think about: 

• Are you going to need a residency after undergrad?

• Is a Ph.D. in the cards after grad school?

• Is there a specific company you have your heart set on that will become more of a reality through a specific college department?

• Do the classes sound useful?

• Does it feel like you could use their program tracks to build a career? 

• Are they accredited in the way you need them to be?

• Do they have the economic and physical resources that will be the most beneficial to you?

How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree?

B.A.s and B.S.s are usually designed to take four years. But depending on the school and the student, it can be longer or shorter. 

And remember, not every profession actually requires you to get a bachelor’s degree. 

There are incredibly lucrative professions that get started with an associate’s degree or a trade certification. 

The Extracurriculars

Don’t underestimate the importance of your activities outside of the classroom.

This is an essential opportunity to build your network, gain invaluable life experience, and make sure you’re enjoying life during college as much as creating a life you’ll enjoy later.

Many schools have an entire department, like this one at Duke, dedicated entirely to applying and expanding your studies in whatever way will be most enriching for you.

• Tulane has over 200+ student organizations. But if they don’t already have a cookies & coloring club for you, they also have exceptional resources to help you start your own organization.

• Study abroad? Yes please. Want your campus to be a 14th century medieval castle in the Netherlands? Emerson’s got you covered. It’s even got a moat.

• Notre Dame is exemplary in many areas, and community service is one of them. Think about social justice and outreach as a way to engage with the community you’re going to be a part of.

Also remember, just like dating, you want a school that wants you as much as you want them. 

What will they get out of having you there? 

Do their offerings reflect your philosophies and will they value your experience or interests?

The Daily Life

You will be spending so much time at this campus - take more than a little bit of time upfront to imagine your next few years there.

• What’s your gut reaction?

• What are their dorms like?

• Any good on-campus food?

• What are the most popular activities outside of the classroom?

• Is it important to you that the college have a religious affiliation? 

• What is their online learning portal like? (You’d be surprised how frustrating and complicated the navigation systems are, even for some of the institutions that have the most money!) **

**This becomes even more important if you’re thinking about getting an online degree. Make sure to spend some time poking around their websites and whatnot. You’ll have to look at those logos and layouts quite a bit before your schooling is done.

Things To Ignore When You Compare Colleges

Here are the four things you may be concerned about that, actually, aren’t helpful and could work against your happiness in the long run.

College rankings. 

Reputation. 

See above. Don’t go into debt for one simple line on your resume.

Location. 

It’s not irrelevant, per se, but it’s not essential unless you have a specific locational need.

In terms of weather, you can endure it for a great program.

In terms of tuition, don’t leave options off the table just because you think you *might not* be able to afford out-of-state tuition. There are many options to help with that.

Don’t believe us or think you’re not a good enough student to qualify for merit-based aid? 

Think again. 

We can help you make it happen with a solid college list and a rockstar college application plan to go with it. 

Acceptance rate. 

A lower acceptance rate doesn’t mean a school is better. 

Yes, you’ll have to work harder and seek more help to get admitted, but it shouldn’t dictate whether or not you want to attend. 

Next Best Steps

Unsure where to start? Don’t let worry overwhelm you. 

If you get stumped, use this list of great questions for college admissions officers to jumpstart what you want to think about. 

For more help, sign up for a private College Comparison Data Dives, where we uncover and analyze all of these comparison points with you and your family. It’s an invaluable tool, especially for making college admissions easier and making college more affordable.

If you just have a question that’s plaguing you, send us a message so we can get it answered!

Why should I go to a college fair?

As you’re beginning your college search, college fairs are a great way for you to explore colleges that you may not have otherwise considered or even known about. Take the opportunity to introduce yourself to the admissions rep, and get your questions answered. 

How should I prepare for a college fair?

Usually a list of colleges that might attend will be posted on the event page. A week or so before the event, visit the website of each of the colleges and take a good 10-15 minute look around at what they offer. Locate their mission, vision, and values, and decide how they might fit what you’re looking for in a college. Take a few notes on stand out programs, opportunities, and anything else that catches your eye. If after that 15 minutes you determine this isn’t a good fit college for you, make note of it. 

One of the biggest mistakes that I see students make here is that they gravitate only toward colleges with names they’re familiar with. Take the time to dig deeper, look beyond the name or the campus.

Reasons to cross a school off of the list:

• They don’t have the program you’re looking for (or if you’re undecided, they don’t have a variety of majors for you to choose from).

• They’re in a location that you’re 100% sure that you don’t want to be.

Otherwise, keep an open mind. The more you explore, the more you’re going to learn about what you want and what you don’t want out of your college experience.

We recommend that you circle or highlight the schools on the college fair list that you definitely want to talk to and then add a matching amount of schools that were unfamiliar to you before picking up the list.

What to Expect at a College Fair

Likely you’re going to be with a number of other families (sometimes it can get really crowded). We recommend that you not wait in huge lines for certain colleges. Instead, plan to stay at the college fair for a least an hour or two. Likely at some point (from my experience at the end of the night/afternoon) the lines will die down. Does this mean you should show up at the end of the fair? No. But don’t spend your entire visit in line for one college.

You’re going to be filling out a lot of interest cards for different colleges that will ask for your name, high school, email, phone number, address, year you graduate, and potential major. Some may also ask for your birthdate. Vanderbilt admissions had a great suggestion for students to print out adhesive labels (if possible) with all of this information on it to speed up the process a little (you can read more here).

You can order them here or pick them up at an office supply store. From there, print them up at home or at school so that you’re ready to put them on those interest cards, save your hand, and show how prepared you are. Don’t forget before printing to make sure everything is spelled and capitalized correctly!

NOTE: Some schools and/or fairs are now using something called StriveScan now instead of interest cards where you can create your own student registration with all of your information and each college can scan your personal barcode from your phone or tablet. TO check to see if your college fair is using StriveScan, click here and enter in your state and search for your event.

Make sure that you fill out any remaining information on that card after you use your adhesive information sticker.

Use our College Impressions Research Sheet to record the research you completed before arriving. Print it out and bring one for each school you’re planning to visit (might as well bring a few extra). Have it filled out with your questions. Use it to take notes and record your impressions.

What to Bring

• Adhesive labels with your information pre-printed or your StriveScan barcode on your phone (make sure it’s charged)
• A pen/pencil
• Your College Impressions Research Sheet with questions ready
• A small stapler, paperclips, or binder clips
• A clipboard

PRO TIP: Once you get an admission representative’s card, staple (or paperclip) it to your College Impressions Research Sheet so that you have their contact information. Later, reach out by email to thank them for their time and/or to ask further questions you may have. 

Bonus Pro Tip: With that paperclip or binder clip, clip together the College Impressions Research Sheet with any school brochures or information for that particular school. This will help you keep organized and eliminate a huge pile of information to sort through later.

What else should I prepare? 

Having a few questions for admissions officers is always a good idea. Try to avoid things that you could have found on the website (such as whether or not they have a particular major) and ask questions that help inform you on …

For example:

Don’t ask: “Do you have a business major?”

Ask instead: “What are some stand out opportunities in your business program that make it stand out from others?”

Or: “I read about your finance program and the Bloomberg trading room that the business department has. Could you tell me more about other opportunities that might not be on the website that I should look into?”

Don’t ask: “Does this school help students find jobs?”

Ask instead: “Do you have any partnerships with different companies for internships or work experience for students? How hands-on is the career center?”

Don’t Ask: “What do students do outside of class?”

Ask instead: “What does a typical Friday night look like on campus?

Here are some more questions you might want to consider asking:

• How involved are professors with their students?

• If you’re a science, engineering, technology (computer science, etc.), or math major: Are there extra requirements for STEM majors?  (AP courses, applying directly to the engineering department or college with a separate application).

• Are some programs more competitive for admissions?

• I’m interested in participating in [insert activity that you might want to continue in college]. Are there opportunities to do that here?

• Are there any scholarships available that I should be aware of and/or apply to?

• What type of student do you feel really fits in here?

• Any other advice or programs you would recommend that I look into?

Tips for Parents

What’s important is that your student has the spotlight. You’re there to support, which means that your student should be asking questions, be the first to introduce themselves to representatives and to share more about who they are and what they’re looking for.

Something that young adults often don’t have much experience in is how to talk about and introduce themselves. This is also a great opportunity to teach them how to properly shake a hand, to make eye contact, and professionally express themselves. A little bit of rehearsal can boost their confidence and keep them from getting flustered.

Sit down together when researching colleges and help them to develop a game plan. Often college fairs can be crowded and overwhelming, so developing a plan can keep everyone in good spirits and on task.

Remind them to pause after each interaction and jot down their notes. We can tell you that if they don’t do this by the time they get home, each college is going to sound the same in their head. Finally, help them to practice thanking the rep.

Follow Up

After the fair, be sure to use the contact information that you have and reach out to the representative. You should definitely thank them for their time and you could ask any questions you may have.

Finally, don’t be afraid to schedule an online information session at the schools you really are interested in, as well as a virtual tour. It’s a great way for you to start furthering your research on each school.

But be careful - don’t confuse the two!

The UC vs CSU systems are not the same.

So how do you choose between them as you’re building your college list and narrowing down your ideal college options?

If you grew up in California or have already been doing your research, you likely already know that UC has a reputation for a more traditional atmosphere and lower acceptance rate, while Cal State is known for a more diverse student body and lower tuition rate. 

But that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Both are great options but there are lots of factors to consider in determining which one is right for you. 

This article will unpack the differences and similarities of the UC vs CSU systems in terms of:

• Locations

• Cost & Scholarships

• Applications

• Student Body & Faculty

• Facilities & Resources

Above all, know that you don’t have to go through the admissions process alone.

You have so many resources available to help you navigate the confusing and stressful tasks of choosing, applying, and trying to pay for the best possible education you can get, as well as the most successful future you can imagine. 

Especially if you want to start that pathway in California.

March Consulting makes it our full time job to know all of the ins and outs of getting into and funding college - because you can only know everything you need to understand in this crazy industry if you make it your fulltime job - and we are a California-born-and-bred company, so we have the experience, knowledge, and connections to guide you toward those sunny beaches.

Click the button below for details on our specific UC vs CSU private college admissions services:

Location Of UC VS CSU

Both systems offer lots of geographic options: UC’s 10 (but only 9 for undergrads) different campuses stick more to the major metropolitan areas while CSU’s 23 different campuses offer exposure to a wider range of geographic options from rural to urban.

UC Schools Map

Location is always a factor students consider in choosing their ideal schools, so consulting the UC Schools Map can help you decide if the University of California system is where you want to apply.

CSU Schools Map

The extensive geographic options of the California State University system are best understood by consulting the CSU Schools Map, to explore possibilities that best suit your plans and dreams for college. 

Cost And Scholarships At UC VS CSU

Money conversations are the hardest.

But they are also the most important discussions to have AS SOON AS POSSIBLE when it comes to your education.

The truth is that there isn’t one perfect school for you. There are many!

So always start with what you can afford, and research creative solutions to make the financial burdens easier. That way you can focus on the fun stuff - like discovering your destiny and getting involved with opportunities you didn’t even dream were available.  

March Consulting absolutely believes that all students should receive the best education possible and that no one should have to go into debt to make that happen. 

If you need more information and guidance regarding managing all things moolah, please don't hesitate to reach out to us here. 

UC Tuition 

UC tuition is going to be around $40,000/year for residents of California and $75,000/year for non-residents of California. 

Currently, 70% of the California residents attending UC get an average of $18,000 in grants and scholarships, but many pay no tuition at all. 

CSU Tuition

Cal State tuition ranges from around $7,000 for undergraduate programs to $17,000 for doctorate programs, with some adjustment depending on which campus you attend and whether or not you’re a California resident.

Currently, 80% of all Cal State students receive financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, or work-study. 

Applying At UC VS CSU

While the majority of schools in the U.S. use the Common App, the California school systems do not. It is important to know that  each has their own system-wide application process. In both cases, there is one application to rule them all. (At least for undergraduates.) 

Click here for the application to any of the nine undergraduate UC campuses.

Click here for the application to any of the twenty-three CSU campuses.

Acceptance Rates For UC VS CSU

Recent statistics show UC ranging from an 8% (UCLA) to 90% (UC Merced) acceptance rate, with all of the other campuses falling at various points in the middle. 

Cal State, on the other hand, is at around an 83% acceptance rate.

Students And Faculty Of UC VS CSU

Since you will likely be spending four years of your life in this place, not to mention hopefully making lifelong friends, it’s important to consider the culture of any potential colleges.

Do you want a large, social school or a small, specialized one?

Do you want to live in a certain environment and/or is living off-campus a possibility? 

Be honest about the day-to-day elements of life that will help to ensure that you thrive at whatever college you choose to attend.

UC Is Known For

… its Nobel Prize-winning faculty, a world-class reputation, and a high graduation rate. 

The UC schools are tougher to get into than the Cal State schools, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they are better for *every* student. 

They do accept a smaller percentage of applicants, but they also have fewer campuses and a larger amount of students on each of those campuses than CSU. Again, that’s not better or worse. 

It really depends on what kind of college experience you are most interested in.

CSU Is Known For

… the most “ethnically, economically, and academically diverse student body in the nation.” 

More than half of the student population is made up of underrepresented minorities. One-third of attendees are the first in their families to attend college.

And that’s not where their inclusiveness ends, since 55% of the Cal State staff is female and more than 60% of their employees are Latinx or Black.

Ultimately, they may admit a higher percentage of students than the UC system, but the CSU system has a smaller number of students on each of its many campuses. What that means is that you get the connections and opportunities of a large school, while feeling like you’re at a smaller school that knows you and cares about you.

Facilities And Resources Of UC VS CSU

Do you already know what you want to study?

Do you want to play a particular sport or get involved with a certain art form?

Look carefully at the offerings of each institution you’re considering to make sure you will have opportunities to be exposed to the experiences and expertise that will best prepare you for the life you want to lead.

Again, lots of schools have great opportunities. 

Make sure you’re creating a spreadsheet to find the schools that line up the best for *all* your interests and needs.

UC Offerings Include:

• Unparalleled research opportunities and world-renowned facilities (for example, they oversee three national laboratories for the U.S. Department of Energy. Wowsa!)

• 6 academic health centers and preeminent graduate degrees, especially in the health field. 

• 160 academic majors. 800 degree programs.

• 422 study abroad programs in 44 countries.

CSU Offerings Include:

• 72 study abroad programs in 17 countries.

• Producing more California educators and leaders than all other California institutions combined, as well as 4% of the entire nation’s teachers (especially in math, science, special education, and bilingual education)

• Project Rebound to support and reintegrate formerly incarcerated individuals

• Basic needs and graduation initiatives to support students, even outside of the classroom

To do a deeper dive on the individual offerings of the 23 different schools that make up the Cal State system, you can try out this handy Compare Cal State Campuses tool on the CSU website.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and still have questions, the expert March consultants are always available to answer your questions.

We understand that you may not even know what it is you don’t know. That’s why we’re here. 

Contact us if you want to clarify your unknowns with the best insider knowledge every step of the way. 

That’s practically the cost of a house!

But don’t worry.

With early planning and professional college admissions guidance in finding scholarships, there’s no reason you can’t attend a perfect-fit school without going into crippling debt. 

And this article will unpack the best place to start: merit scholarships.

What is a merit scholarship?

A merit scholarship is either a one-time monetary compensation for all your hard work in high school or a renewing award granted every year for ongoing excellence while you’re enrolled at your chosen college or university. 

The good news is you’re already ahead of the game just by starting to think about the financial considerations around higher education.

Most students apply to the schools they’ve heard of, figuring they’ll worry about paying after they get accepted. 

That’s a surefire way to lose out on great financial aid opportunities. 

Instead, start with the money as you’re building your college list.

Find the schools that are tailored to your particular interests and goals that also meet the needs of your family’s circumstances.

There are thousands of amazing colleges and universities all over the world.

The key is to find the hidden gem opportunities.

I’ll let you in on a little secret: the schools with the most expensive price tag are not necessarily the schools that will cost you the most in the long run. 

Remember the $11K vs $40K statistic we started with (and knowing it’s going to keep getting higher)?

Those “more expensive” private schools also usually have more flexibility to offer merit-based aid to entice high-quality students to their institutions. 

They want to attract students who want to be there.

They want to reward students who want to learn and engage with their community. 

What that means is that if you work hard in high school and demonstrate that you’d be good college material, you will likely be in a position to earn a merit scholarship.

If this is already overwhelming or you’re not sure how the finance questions fit in, based on wherever you’re at in the college application process, please know that you don’t have to go through this alone.

For personalized tips & information, reach out to a March Consulting expert whose entire job is making the college admissions process more manageable, and understanding your strongest path toward the successful future you’ve always wanted.

College is an investment in your dreams. 

So make the best possible choices for you.

Keep reading for the deets on merit scholarships or schedule a free consultation with us today to find out more about working smarter, not harder. 

What Is A Merit Scholarship?

A merit scholarship is a type of financial assistance that rewards students for their academic achievements, artistic talents, sports achievements, or other accomplishments. 

(This is in contrast to need-based scholarships, which are entirely based on the financial circumstances of students and their families.) 

Merit scholarships are based on individual students’ determination, passion, and performance, both in and out of school.

There are two types of merit scholarships you can win:

1. Privately funded scholarships

2. School-sponsored scholarships

A merit scholarship can cover all or a portion of your tuition and other school expenses.

Merit Award Meaning

A merit award is the same as a merit scholarship, with amount totals and conditions varying at the discretion of the merit award’s sponsors.

So… good work = get funds.

Merit Aid Meaning

Merit aid is the same as a merit award or a merit scholarship. 

They are all different names for the same concept and you will see them used interchangeably by people in the college admissions arena. 

Grants, assistance, funding - call it what you will.

Basically, it’s generous people trying to help you make your life better through learning lots of cool stuff at accredited schools.

All you have to do is convince those people that you’re an awesome investment! You’re a student who will make good use of the moolah!

How To Get Merit Scholarships

The main thing to know about how to get merit scholarships is that you will need to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills, or other talents that make you stand out from other students. 

Overall, you improve your chances of getting a merit scholarship if you:

• Have good grades when you apply

• Maintain a high GPA over time, if possible

• Take challenging classes and excel in them

• Participate in relevant sports or clubs 

• Do community service and volunteer work

• Develop leadership skills and take on leadership roles in your school or community

• Apply for scholarships early

Generally, the above tips increase your chances of getting merit scholarships as well as other forms of financial aid to help you pay for college.

But let’s keep focused on how scholarships work for now.

Here are the steps you’ll need to take to get merit scholarships:

1. Find one. 
   • Research colleges and universities that offer merit scholarships for programs you’re interested in. 
   • Talk to your school counselor or advisors for merit scholarships they might be aware of.
   • Talk to older students who might be able to share information about merit scholarships they applied for.
   • Use scholarship search engines (like Fastweb Scholarships, Big Future , or Chegg Scholarships) to search out far-reaching opportunities.
2. Prepare well in order to be a strong contender. 
   • Keep your grades up.
   • Keep organized track of anything you’ve achieved or participated in that could look good on a scholarship application (focus on quality over quantity).
   • Sign-up for more challenging classes (but not so hard that you can’t succeed.)
   • Take online classes to improve your ACT and SAT scores
3. Apply.  
   • Apply early. Many students miss out on chances simply because they miss the deadlines. Don’t be one of those students!
   • Apply early. Many schools have early action or early decision programs that offer a higher likelihood of receiving more financial aid.
   • One more time… apply early. Have your application finished in time to have your cover letters, answers, essays, etc. proofread by a trusted, knowledgeable source who can ensure your chances aren’t hampered by bad grammar or fixable mistakes (such as people who forget to put their name on their work!).
4. Negotiate the amount if you need to.

NOTE: This step isn’t always possible. However, sometimes you are offered financial aid packages at multiple universities and you have a preference that unfortunately doesn’t come with the higher bank account help. If that’s the case, there’s nothing wrong with asking for more. If you go this route remember these essential principles:

• Be polite. They are already offering you money, so there’s no need to be ungrateful. Use tact in clearly communicating your needs and remember you’re talking to another human being – one who holds your destiny in their hands.
• Be honest. If you’re saying you’re being offered more from someone else, they’re probably going to want proof before hiking up any numbers. Plus, people talk in the industry. On top of it being unethical, odds are that a lie will get caught.
• Be enthusiastic. If you can make a good, optimistic case that they are your dream school, it could help your chances. Perhaps there is more available and it’s between you and another student – wouldn’t you give the money to the person who loves your school the most?

5. Report the merit scholarship.

The government requires schools to report financial aid data, so you’ll need to let whatever school you’re attending know about outside scholarships you accrue. It’s also possible that the amount of financial aid you’re offered may be adjusted if your total exceeds your need. (That’s a great thing because then more money can be offered to another student who may really need it!)

6. Use your merit scholarship.

Make sure you understand what’s expected and allowed regarding any merit scholarship you’re given. Some may ask you to keep track of your expenses, some may directly give you the money and trust you to use it well. Keep reading below for more info on what happens if you don’t use all of your financial aid money.

Types Of Merit Scholarships

Behold some specific examples:

ACT Scholarships

Community Service Scholarships

STEM Scholarships

Arts Scholarships

Eagle Scouts and Girl Scouts

First Generation Scholarships

National Merit Scholarship

And this is just the barest tip of the iceberg that is the thousands and thousands of dollars in merit aid awards that might be perfect for a student just like you!

Financial Aid vs Merit Aid

Financial aid is the all-encompassing amount of $$$ you’re receiving to help pay for college, which can include merit aid as one of its subcategories.

Do I Have To Pay Back Financial Aid?

Whether or not you have to pay back financial aid depends entirely on what kind of financial aid you’re receiving.

Most merit scholarships, awards, grants, and work-study programs do not ask you to pay back their financial aid funds.

Loans, however, do have to be paid back as soon as you graduate. 

And usually with high interest rates. (Double yikes!)

Sometimes schools can make students feel as if loans are the only option available to them. While loans can serve an important function, there are other ways to achieve your academic and career goals without going into burdensome debt. 

Find out more about how with March Consulting’s data-driven approach to finding perfect-fit schools and school financing. 

Do I Have To Pay Back Merit Aid?

No. Usually you do not have to pay back any merit award portions of your financial aid.

You earned it.

What Happens If I Don’t Use All Of My Financial Aid Money?

If you don't use all of your financial aid money, the unused funds will typically be returned to the financial aid office (or the federal government, state government… whichever person or group provided you with the funds in the first place).

However, some schools may allow you to keep the unused funds, as long as you use them for educational expenses.

More questions? Book a discovery call with our team of college consulting experts to start moving faster and more easily toward your dreams for college & beyond.

It’s never too early to start thinking about and planning for financing your educational journey. 

In fact, starting with the money is the smartest way to build a successful plan for your biggest career and life goals.

Many students begin searching for a college to attend, with the mindset that they are looking for “the one right school,” and assuming they’ll figure out how do you pay for it after getting accepted.

There’s a better way.

First, discover the numerous perfect-fit colleges that can help you make your dreams a reality. 

Second, take an honest look at the financial considerations for your family and use those parameters to narrow down your college list options. 

Don’t go into debt to get the education you need and want.

With careful planning, you won’t have to. 

Scholarships are an excellent, important method for easing the financial burden of college. 

In this article, you'll learn about…

• Different types of scholarships, 
• How to find them, and 
• Best scholarship search engines like: 
  • Fastweb Scholarships
  • Big Future
  • Chegg Scholarships
  • Scholly
  • Scholarships.com
  • Local organizations 
  • High school bulletin boards
  • Career/college Resource Centers

How do we know all of this?

We breathe, eat, and sleep all things college admissions… so you don’t have to.

At March Consulting, it’s our full-time job to help students and families prepare for well-known options and find hidden gem opportunities they’d never even considered.

Looking for personalized advice and creative solutions tailored to your priorities? 

Reach out to an expert private college admissions counselor. 

Different Types of Scholarships

You can’t find the best option if you don’t know what all the options are!

Here are the types of scholarships available for college students and college hopefuls…

• Merit-Based Scholarships

• Need-Based Scholarships

• Athletic Scholarships

• Minority Scholarships

• School-Specific Scholarships

• Major-Specific Scholarships

• Region-Based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are the ideal financial solution to strive for, but there are also many private scholarship options waiting for the right student to find them.

Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships (like the National Merit Scholarship and financial aid from individual schools) are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional…

• Academic, 

• Artistic, or 

• Leadership abilities. 

To qualify, you'll typically need to maintain a high GPA and submit essays, recommendation letters, or a portfolio showcasing your talents.

Often, finalists can also be asked to audition or interview.

Need-Based Scholarships

Need-based scholarships focus on providing financial assistance to students and/or families who lack the resources to fund their education. 

Eligibility is most often determined by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Athletic Scholarships

Athletes with impressive performance records can receive athletic scholarships from colleges and universities - sometimes through application, scouting, or tryouts. 

To maintain these scholarships, however, you'll need to participate in the institution's sports program while continuing to meet the institution’s academic requirements.

Minority Scholarships

Minority scholarships aim to promote diversity and provide opportunities for underrepresented ethnicities, races, genders, or sexual orientations. 

To qualify, you'll most likely need to submit proof of your heritage or affiliation with a particular community.

School-Specific Scholarships

Some institutions offer scholarships exclusive to their students - and they’re not always the schools you’d expect!

Looking at the differences between public vs private colleges, for example, It’s not uncommon for private schools with the highest price tag to provide scholarships more easily than “less expensive” public schools. Ultimately, those private colleges might cost students less in the long run.

School-specific scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or geared toward particular departments or programs. 

To apply, check the school's financial aid office for information and application materials.

Major-Specific Scholarships

Major-specific scholarships target students pursuing a specific field of study. 

They can be funded by professional organizations, businesses, or individuals to encourage the development of specialized skills. 

To qualify, you'll need to enroll in an eligible program and usually maintain a certain GPA.

Region-Based Scholarships

Region-based scholarships are awarded to residents of specific geographic areas, such as states, counties, or cities. 

They may be sponsored by local organizations, businesses, or governments to encourage regional growth and development. 

To apply, research scholarships available in your area and adhere to their application requirements.

How To Find Scholarships

There’s no wrong way to find college scholarships, but here’s the most useful way:

1. Research scholarships through your school or your prospective college's financial aid office. 

2. Talk to counselors or advisors. They are often knowledgeable about scholarships and have insight into schools, programs, or qualifications.

3. Talk to older students about scholarships they applied for

4. Explore national, state, and local organizations including 

1. Professional associations 

2. Nonprofits  

3. Educational foundations through your favorite companies

5. Utilize dedicated scholarship search engines to expand your search further, such as:

1. Fastweb Scholarships

2. Big Future by College Board

3. Chegg Scholarships

Be proactive and stay organized to not miss any opportunities.

Best Scholarship Search Engines

As you navigate the world of college scholarships, these tools can help you discover and apply for scholarships that fit your needs and goals.

Create a personalized profile to generate a comprehensive list of scholarships that match your criteria. 

Remember, the more information you provide, the more (tailored) scholarship matches you’ll receive.

Fastweb Scholarships

Fastweb Scholarships is one of the most popular and recommended scholarship search engines out there. 

Some features of Fastweb:

• Access to over 1.5 million scholarships, grants, and fellowships

• Customized scholarship matches based on your unique profile

• Email notifications for new scholarship opportunities

• Scholarship application tips and resources

Big Future

Another effective scholarship search engine is Big Future, operated by College Board (maker of the SAT & PSAT). 

Key features of Big Future:

• A database of over 2,300 national scholarship opportunities

• Simple filtering options to narrow down your search results

• Integration with College Board account, including SAT scores and college preferences

• A dedicated page for each scholarship, detailing award amounts, eligibility, and application requirements

Chegg Scholarships

Chegg Scholarships is another excellent resource to help you explore available scholarships. 

With a focus on user-friendliness, Chegg offers:

• Over 25,000 scholarship opportunities in their database

• Customizable scholarship search filters based on criteria like GPA, major, and deadlines

• A "Favorites" feature to save and keep track of preferred scholarships

• Access to Chegg's additional resources, including study help and textbook solutions

Whichever search engine(s) you use, remember to…

1. Stay organized to stay ahead of deadlines and be prepared for all of the different requirements.

2. Apply to as many scholarships as you qualify for to increase your chances of success.

Requirements for a Scholarship

Understanding the requirements for a scholarship can increase your chances of being awarded one. 

Requirements obviously vary, based on the type of scholarship and the organization offering it, but there are some common elements to consider and prepare for. 

In this section, we'll explore eligibility requirements, the application process, and selection criteria.

Eligibility

Eligibility for a scholarship typically depends on…:

• Academic achievements (GPA, class rank, classes taken, intended college major)
• Financial need
• Leadership and community involvement
• Talent in sports or the arts
• Membership in certain organizations or affiliations with specific industries

BUT: Don’t just assume you’re not qualified without looking at the fine print. 

Many students underestimate their eligibility and competitive edge. 

And many other students will miss the deadlines. 

So it’s always best to at least try, because you never know how things will work out.

Seek out a professional scholarship consultant if you want expert help setting yourself up for all these cool opportunities. 

Application Process

The application process for scholarships can include…

1. Searching for scholarships that match your criteria
2. Filling out and submitting the application form
3. Writing and submitting essays
4. Obtaining letters of recommendation
5. Providing academic transcripts or other documentation

Each scholarship will have its own process and deadlines.

Stay organized by making yourself a thorough spreadsheet, then follow all instructions carefully. 

Nothing will get you disqualified faster than simply not reading and doing what is asked of you.

It also helps to edit down any written material. Keep your applications as simple and as honest as possible.

Lastly, always double-check your application materials for accuracy and completeness before submitting them. 

Want help proofreading your application and essays? March Consulting has experts on staff that can help you put your best college-essay-foot forward every time.

Selection Criteria

Scholarship committees typically evaluate applications based on factors such as…

• Academic performance and rigor of courses taken
• Extracurricular activities and leadership experience
• Community service and volunteer work
• Work experience or internships
• Demonstrated financial need or merit
• Quality of essays and personal statements
• Letters of recommendation

Keep in mind that quality over quantity of participation matters.

How long you have engaged in relevant activities can matter more than how much you’ve achieved. 

Your passion and commitment is important.

Tailor each application to highlight your strengths and match the expectations of the scholarship provider. Don’t simply recycle applications without adjustments.

Do You Have To Pay A Scholarship Back?

Good news! 

Typically, no, you don’t have to pay a scholarship back.

Scholarships are often considered gifts, so long as you meet all requirements and use all funds for their intended purpose.

Possible requirements: 

• Maintaining a certain GPA

• Participating in extracurricular activities

• Fulfilling community service hours

Be sure you understand and abide by these requirements if you win a scholarship. Failure to do so could result in losing your scholarship or being asked to pay back the funds.

In the rare case that your scholarship is considered a loan that must be paid back, thoroughly read through the terms and conditions before accepting the scholarship. 

How Many Scholarships Can You Get?

There is no set limit to the number of scholarships you can receive.

Therefore the number of scholarships you can get depends on 

1. Eligibility, 

2. Application requirements

3. Effort you put into finding them and applying  

Start searching for scholarships early, then apply as often as you are able to.

Scholarships come from a wide variety of sources, such as… 

• Federal governments 

• State governments

• Colleges and universities

• Private donors

Keep in mind that receiving multiple scholarships might affect your other financial aid, such as loans or grants, or even other scholarships. 

If the combined amount of your scholarships and other financial aid exceeds your college's cost of attendance, the financial aid office may reduce the amount they offer you. 

However, it's usually better to have more scholarship money than you need.

Be unapologetic and diligent in going for it.

Can You Use Scholarship Money for Anything?

This question can only be answered by the parameters of each specific scholarship. 

While some scholarships may have a broad, flexible application, others restrict how funds are used. 

Permitted Expenses

Generally, most scholarship providers allocate funds for direct educational expenses like:

• Tuition

• School fees

• Books

• Supplies

• Equipment required for courses

• Room and board

In some cases, scholarship money can also help cover other living expenses or personal needs, such as transportation or childcare. 

Check the terms and conditions of your specific scholarships to confirm.

Non-Permitted Expenses

Scholarship funds should not be used for non-educational expenses outside the scope listed in the scholarship agreement. 

Examples:

• Luxury items

• Vacations 

• Entertainment or recreational activities

Misusing scholarship funds can lead to penalties or complete repayment of the award. 

Read the terms and restrictions related to your scholarship and always ask questions in advance to avoid any issues.

Can You Keep Extra Scholarship Money?

Again, this depends on the particular scholarship.

Some scholarships apply directly to your tuition, room & board, etc. In these cases, you usually cannot keep extra money.

However, other scholarships may be sent directly to you so you’ll have more flexibility in how you use the scholarship funds. 

If you have extra scholarship money, consider using it for the following educational expenses:

• Textbooks and course materials

• Off-campus housing

• Transportation costs

• Technology, such as a computer or tablet

• Research experiences

Carefully keep track of how you spend scholarship funds and save receipts, since some scholarships may require you to report how you used the money. 

Still have questions?

We have plenty more answers. 

Connect with us to start building a plan for college scholarships and beyond.

Which type of colleges should you be putting on your list of schools to apply to?

March Consulting is here to help you with the answer.

The best college is the one that is best FOR YOU, and you should be building a college list spreadsheet that includes a range of schools that fit your personalized criteria.

There are many perfect-fit colleges - yes, for you specifically - but you have to know what you’re looking for. 

As passionate, long-time college admissions advisors, March Consulting can provide recommendations and resources to help you fine-tune your goals and achieve your dreams - while avoiding going into debt for school.

Read the article below to find out the difference between public and private colleges in terms of:

• Money 

• Size 

• Degrees offered

• Resources available

This is by no means a list of hard and fast rules, though. 

There are many exceptions.

So if you want assistance searching out and understanding all the nitty-gritty, we can go through this process with you one-on-one. Reach out to us using the button below:

Money Differences Between Public And Private Colleges

The biggest difference between public and private schools is all the cash stuff: different funding is received, different tuition is required, and different financial aid is available.

The myriad ways in which dollars go in and out of higher education institutions and their philosophies about handling money change dramatically between public and private colleges.

Public VS Private College Funding

Public schools are government-funded and non-profit. 

Private schools are funded by tuition, alumni donations, and endowments. 

While private colleges can be for-profit or non-profit, the ones with the most glowing reputations are usually non-profit.

The amount of money coming in from the government has the largest impact on…

Public vs Private College Tuition

Government subsidizing often means the initial price tag of public school tuition can be lower. 

They can afford to charge less. 

But that doesn’t *necessarily* mean that you’ll be paying more to attend a private school. Don’t forget about…

Public VS Private College Financial Aid

Private schools generally offer larger scholarship opportunities, grants, and tuition discounts.

So even if you want to attend a private school that has a higher cost on paper, it’s possible - if you research opportunities and prepare well - to take advantage of those opportunities. You could end up paying less for a great private college than you would for a public college.

The fact still remains, however, that you need a well-rounded picture of what will be the most successful learning experience and environment for you. 

So start with the money, but keep the other factors in mind.

Size Differences Between Public And Private Colleges

Generally speaking, public institutions are usually larger. 

Private schools are often scaled smaller.

This rough generalization applies to the number of students in each class, the overall geographical sprawl of the campus, and the volume of activities and clubs offered.

Class Size

If you want more students to meet and befriend, more of a social scene, and possibly a greater variety of styles/types of students, a larger public school might be for you. 

If you don’t want any large lecture classes where you can get lost in the masses, don’t get as much personal attention, and don’t know everyone around you, then you might want to consider a smaller private institution.

Campus Size

If you dream of wandering the farthest stretches of meandering buildings while still on campus or even having a school with multiple campuses and the wealth of opportunity that it provides, then aim for a larger school - which will likely be a public college.

If you feel an intimate, inclusive atmosphere will be more manageable, steer yourself toward a smaller school—likely a private college.

Size Of The Athletics Departments

Suppose athletics is the most important factor in making your college decisions. In that case, the best path for you should be based on specific, individual school departments and not on whether those schools are public vs private colleges. 

However, if athletics are just one of the things you’re considering, the overall trend is for sports opportunities to be more plentiful at larger public schools than at private colleges.

Size Of Extracurricular Offerings

Looking for a more diverse selection of extracurriculars than you imagined possible? 

Craving a more specialized selection of extracurriculars that have been recommended to you or that you’ve already been practicing for? 

These are essential factors to consider when narrowing down your list of schools to apply to. Once again, the size of school will probably determine the options available, but when researching schools, look carefully at what each one has to offer to find the ones that suit you.

Degrees At Public vs Private Colleges

Public universities can have a broader range of academic programs or degree offerings. 

Private, liberal arts schools tend to favor narrower fields of study for students who might head to college already knowing exactly what they want to learn and exactly what they want to do in their careers.

Beyond that, the reputation of a degree from a public vs private college is more dependent on the individual school rather than on the fact that they’re public or private. An employer is not usually likely to hire you or not based purely on that. 

You may have a greater opportunity of getting an interview or getting hired out of college if the boss is an alumnus or if they have a good professional relationship with anyone else who attended your school, but again, public vs private colleges usually won’t be the deciding factor.

Resources At Public vs Private Colleges

Facilities & Faculties: they vary *widely.* 

Public colleges have more government money to play with, so their research capabilities and support might be more extensive than those of smaller, private schools. 

On the other hand, the smaller private colleges might provide you with greater access to available facilities and less fighting with your peers for attention from your professors.

Either can be an advantage. Which is “better” depends entirely on the type of student you are and what kind of college life you want.

The nature of accreditation and experience requirements for public vs private colleges *can* determine the types of professors attracted to those respective places… but that doesn’t really affect the overall quality of those instructors. 

You can find excellent teachers all over the world.

So then… Which Is Better? Public Or Private College?

Ultimately, whether schools are public or private is probably not your biggest concern. 

We recommend starting with the money (ie: not just what you can afford but what you want to pay) because no one should have to go into debt for a great education and there are many perfect-fit college possibilities all over the world.

Be clear on what is best for you. 

Research which schools will bring you closest to your goals for your career and future. 

Apply to them and available scholarships. 

If you need help narrowing down options or searching out financial aid opportunities, March Consulting is available with best, most up-to-date tools. 

If you still have questions or you want personalized guidance through the insanely stressful and complex college admissions process, contact a March expert consultant here. 

Our full-time job is to make the college admissions process manageable for you and we are ready to help build your pathway to whatever “success” means to you and your family. 

You know to start at the very beginning - it’s a very good place to start. But if you don’t know where the beginning is in a college search process, this article is for you.

To begin with, let’s clear up something important. 

Many students over-worry about finding the perfect school. 

Certainly, you want an excellent college, and absolutely it’s a part of the experience once you’re there to taunt your rivals with spirited chants about how your mascot is better than theirs.

But searching for a school is not a Cinderella’s-prince-with-the-glass-slipper-type scenario. 

When it comes to building your college list, there isn’t one right college.

There are many spectacular best-fit colleges for you to find. 

The rags-to-riches part of the Cinderella story can pair wonderfully with a college journey. We can definitely help you navigate the difficult economic questions of the college admissions process. But none of this one glass slipper = only one correct answer, stuff.

Rather than focusing on some imaginary ideal needle in an overwhelming haystack, reset your perspective toward uncovering a handful of hidden gems that can each get you where you desire to go with different excellent opportunities for getting there.

Here’s how:

• Know what you want to get out of college

• Utilize the resources you have available to you

• Leverage helpful college search tools

Remember, the hardest part of any journey is the first step. 

But you’ve got help. 

So let’s get going.

Reasons To Go To College

Where do you want to go in life?

Who do you want to become?

To search out schools, you need to have specific criteria to search with, like:

• The culture  

• Style of learning

• Size of classrooms

• Types of current students 

• Religious affiliations

• Catalysts for personal growth

• Who you’ll be learning from

• Who you’ll be learning with

• What you can major in

• What you can do in your free time outside of the classroom

• The school’s success with job placement, or even % of students who achieve their degrees

• How much the school helps with financial aid

Spend some time deeply considering your priorities rather than simply applying to whatever school your friends are going to attend.

You may very well end up choosing to go to college with your friends, but don’t limit your search right off the bat without at least considering all the possibilities.

How To Look For College

First and foremost, talk to your family about your college prospects and priorities.

Your college search and attendance will impact all of you, so include them in the process.

Secondly, you’re going to be tempted to search out college rankings for ideas. Don’t.

Here’s why:

According to many stats experts - including Malcolm Gladwell in this excellent explanation - the measurements for comparing colleges are flawed and skewed toward the commercial interests of big universities, not the interests of students trying to decide where to apply.

College ranking data is predominantly subjective, highly misleading, and unrelated to how great your education will be or how good of a fit you will be for a particular school.  

Even colleges competing against each other on the international rankings have the same profound problems of perpetuating worldwide reputations rather than real, calculable results.

Let’s look instead at places that are useful for you to map and flesh out your search.

Mine Your Own Resources For College Ideas

You have everything you need to get started and immediately.

If you’re scared to start because you don’t feel like you know what you’re doing, that’s completely normal.

No one expects you to be an expert.

You can do this work efficiently as long as you stay focused on your own goals.

Start simply and exploit these helpful avenues you already have available:

• Your email: Colleges tend to send out many emails with useful links, dates, and posts about getting into their schools.

• Your snail mail: colleges like to send flyers advertising specific programs you might be interested in.

• Your high school counselor’s office: their books, brochures, speakers, and relationships with admissions officers can help you out.

• Talk to friends, family, and mentors you respect and trust to get their insight and ideas. Choose those who know and celebrate what you might enjoy in a college and also what you might have to offer to a college.

• Invest in a little time with expert college counselors who can guide and assist you (understanding and mastering the college admissions process is their whole job!)

Know What Type Of College You Are Looking For

Secondary schools fall roughly into one of three categories. Which types might fit you best?

1. National Universities - usually larger classes; often study is divided equally between core curriculum, major requirements, and electives; strong pre-professional programs

2. Liberal Arts Colleges - broader general education; often close relationships with professors; a big emphasis on critical thinking and communication skills

3. Specialty Schools - narrower specialized majors; hands-on fieldwork paired with classroom instruction; can be STEM, arts, business, etc.

Keep thinking of the other ways you might want to compare colleges.

Aim To Consider A Wide Range Of Colleges  

This is where we talk about sprinkling admissions probability into the mix of things to think about. 

Do not confuse this with a school’s acceptance rate or a reflection of your worth.

This refers to: Do you think the school will be as excited about you as you are about them?

Think of it like dating. 

Do you want to ask out someone who is likely to say yes? Or are you only interested in someone that everyone else wants to ask out but is likely to say no to you?

Exclusivity and other people’s attractions may have an effect on our perspective, but such things should not be the primary determining factor.

Try to realistically place schools in one of three categories so that you can have a large number of options in that sweet middle range between the extremes of “safety schools” or “famous schools” you were peer-pressured into wanting.

1. Have a target wish list. Don’t restrict your dreaming, or cross something off the list because of location or expense. Don’t weed anything out without looking closely at the school’s common data set and what your stats might be able to say. It may surprise you to know there is an unlimited number of successful pathways to get to where you want to go. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, contact an expert private college counselor for help discovering the path that can work for you.

2. Have a reach wish list. Don’t limit yourself to what you already know or have overheard. Do your homework and push your expectations. College can and should be a time to grow beyond where you are now.

3. Have a likely wish list. Include some choices to remind yourself that you are a desirable college candidate. There’s nothing wrong with an unconventional pathway if it gets you to your career goals - and there are many lesser-well-known schools that can easily get you there.

Ways To Research & Discover Colleges

There are a bunch of magnificent tools for researching schools. 

Remember, colleges want you to find them. They want you to want them. 

So they’re going to make it as easy as possible - you just have to do a little reaching out.

Here are the best tools for finding college options and getting your questions answered about what school you should go to:

• College fairs

• Individual school websites

• Look at both the areas for prospective students AND for current students to get a more well-rounded perspective

• See if you can find any of their current students’ blogs

• Follow their social media

• Virtual tours

• Direct contact

• Reach out to college admissions officers 

• Reach out to professors (an admissions officer can often connect you - but don’t send too many emails; keep it courteous and professional)

• Reach out to current students

• Look around the NCAA site (for athletes hoping to play Division I or Division II)

• National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (for small college athletics)

• Pick up a book at the library (or ask your high school counselor to buy these for your school)

• The Fiske Guide to Colleges

• The Complete Book of Colleges

• Colleges that Change Lives

• College Unranked

• The Insider’s Guide to College

• For access to even more useful college tools, get an expert college counselor to walk you through professional college searching and counseling software. With a March Consulting data deep dive, for example, you’ll have access to both Counselmore and College Aid Pro as well as invaluable guidance on how to leverage your newfound data knowledge to get acceptance letters and tuition money from your dream colleges.

As you consider these resources, you might start to get nervous about what you should be looking for and what you should talk to people about.

If that’s the case, jumpstart some ideas with this article on the best questions to ask college admissions officers.

Next Step: Combine Your College Data Into A Spreadsheet

You want to have easily readable, well-organized notes on what you’ve found so you don’t have to try to remember everything.

For more, here’s an article that can help you with building your college list.

Remember throughout this process to:

• Be brave & honest with yourself - these are decisions you have to live with

• Explore your resources and ask for help

• Keep researching your options - don’t assume you know the facts 

• Stay focused on your personal priorities and reasons to go to college

If you have questions, we’ll happily answer them. Please feel free to reach out anytime.

Above all, be curious, confident, and committed to building a successful future. 

Need Help? Get Guidance From Expert College Counselors

March Consulting and our sister site, Higher Scores Test Prep, can give you all the tools you need for untangling the intricacies of this process. 

We help with accountability and provide the most current data available to facilitate your endeavors- not just what information is available, but how to apply that information to achieve your goals. 

Let us know how we can support you!

Those two questions go hand in hand.

In this article, we'll discuss the important considerations for college hopefuls, such as… 

• Why do I want to go to college?

• How do I start researching colleges?

• Best practices for standing out in a college application?

• How important are entrance exams like the ACT or SAT?

• How long does it take to get accepted into college?

College is a major milestone - a place to acquire valuable skills, knowledge, and future career connections.

But it doesn’t start on your first day of college. 

It starts right now with your motivations for pursuing higher education. 

And it starts with being honest about money.

You shouldn’t have to go into debt for an amazing degree or certificate. So if you want to avoid it, don’t wait until acceptance letters are rolling in to have family discussions about finances.

Talk about it today.

With the diversity of colleges in the United States and worldwide, you can absolutely find the right fit - where you can thrive and also be able to afford it.

So keep reading for expert advice or if you'd like personalized help to explore options and pinpoint the best schools/scholarship opportunities specifically for you, reach out to one of the March private college consultants.

Our entire job is understanding the most up-to-date ins and outs of how to get into college AND how to pay for it. Use our hard-won knowledge by clicking the button below.

Why Do You Want to Go to College

Knowing whether you’re seeking education for personal enrichment, specific career training, or valuable contacts can guide your decisions around schooling. 

The mistake many students make is stressing out over choosing “that one perfect school.”

But the truth is there are thousands of great schools and many perfect options for you – as long as you’re clear on your reasons for seeking further education.

Some possible reasons:

• Expanding your knowledge: College offers opportunities to explore a variety of subjects and expand your worldview, sometimes by traveling to new places 

• Personal growth: College exposes you to new ideas, helps develop critical thinking skills, and introduces you to diverse social circles in settings you might not otherwise have access to.

• Enhancing employability: A college degree can make you more competitive in the job market, opening doors to higher-paying or fulfilling careers – 

• Revealing potential careers: Colleges offer extracurricular activities that can lead to occupations you may not have considered.

• Networking: College provides opportunities to network with classmates, professors, and alumni, to enhance your college experience and make valuable connections for your future career.

Take time to reflect on your goals and interests. 

Identify factors that matter to you, then search for schools that provide those possibilities.

Researching And Looking for Colleges

Begin by listing your college preferences. 

Include… 

• Location  

• Size

• Type

• Faculty-to-student ratio 

• Available programs

• Student life

• Financial aid opportunities

Create a college list spreadsheet to keep track of how each school fits your most important factors and stay organized as you compare colleges.

How To Start Researching Colleges

Begin with online research based on advice from your school counselor, peers, private college counselors, and family.

Then attend college fairs and utilize resource centers. Take notes on what you like and don’t like (or don’t know). Keep materials from college reps that you meet.

Lastly, visit campuses for a more in-depth understanding.

What Makes A Dream School

A dream school aligns with your personal and academic goals while offering a well-rounded educational environment. 

Consider the following while searching for your dream school:

• Available courses and majors

• Academic reputation

• Graduation and job placement rates

• Campus culture and extracurricular activities

• Financial aid and scholarship opportunities

• Support services, like academic advising and career counseling

Be aware that your priorities may change over time. 

Stay flexible in your search and reevaluate your dream school as you discover new information.

Choosing the Right College

With so many options, choosing the right college may seem overwhelming at first. 

But it doesn’t have to stay that way!

With a deep, thorough data dive on the schools you’re interested in you can incorporate your personal and academic requirements for a strong final decision.

Keep the following in mind:

• Admission rate and competitiveness of the college

• Financial requirements and overall cost of attendance

• Accessibility to internships, study abroad, and research opportunities

• Student life and social aspects of the college

Ultimately, the right college is one that offers an optimal balance of your academic, personal, and financial needs, and prepares you for your future.

How to Get into a Good College

It’s important to maintain strong academic performance in high school.

This includes taking challenging courses, achieving high grades, and participating in extracurricular activities.

Researching colleges and universities early in your high school career will help you understand requirements. 

As you narrow down your list of potential schools, speak with current students and demonstrate your interest in each college. 

When speaking with admissions officers and counselors, ask specific questions about the admissions process, requirements, and selection criteria.

The time it takes to get accepted into college varies, but being proactive in your preparation and diligent in your applications will improve your admission chances. Be sure to keep track of application deadlines for each college and submit applications well ahead of time. 

Standing Out To Colleges

Having an application that stands out in the large sea of applicants is essential. 

Showcase your commitment and abilities through:

• Academic performance
• Extracurricular activities
• Personal statements
• Standardized tests like ACT or SAT (yes you should still take them!)

Academics In Applying To College

Maintain a strong high school academic performance to show colleges your dedication and ability to excel. 

Take challenging AP and IB classes when possible.

Colleges appreciate a student who pushes themselves academically.

Extracurriculars For Applying To College

Get involved in extracurricular activities, like clubs, sports, volunteering, or internships. 

Commit to interests outside of school and keep your activities focused. This will demonstrate your depth and growth in them over time.

The quality of your involvement is more important than a long list of activities.

Effective Personal Statements and Essays

Tell your story and convey your unique personality. 

Be genuine and authentic.

Your essay should cover three main aspects:

• Personal growth: How have you evolved over time?

• Challenges faced: Describe a meaningful challenge you overcame during high school.

• Future aspirations: How will college help you achieve your goals?

Remember, a compelling essay is often the deciding factor for admission, so take time to write thoughtfully and revise thoroughly. 

Ensure proper grammar and structure by having trusted help proofreading. 

Strong Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation highlight your qualities from the perspective of others. 

Choose teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your strengths and personal growth. 

Approach them early to allow ample time to write a thoughtful, detailed letter. Also, provide information about your accomplishments, interests, and goals to make their job easier.

Understanding Testing Requirements

Some schools may require the SAT or ACT, while others have test-optional policies. Check each college's requirements. 

But be aware that even schools purporting to be “test-optional” may still require test scores for merit aid. 

It's best to take either the ACT or SAT and be ready with at least one test score.

Testing early gives you time to improve your scores if necessary.

Do You Have to Take the ACT?

The ACT covers English, math, reading, and science, with an optional writing section. Whether you need to take the ACT depends on the colleges you are applying to. 

Most U.S. colleges accept either the ACT or SAT.

If either test is acceptable, research the differences between the ACT vs the SAT (including huge changes to the SAT in the next few years) to choose which is best for you.

Do You Have to Take the SAT?

The SAT covers reading, writing and language, and math. 

Many colleges accept either the SAT or ACT, so choose the test that best showcases your skills.

As you start preparing for these tests, it's essential to allow some time for test prep, either through self-study, tutoring, or the best online prep classes. 

This will help you maximize your scores and increase your chance of acceptance into your desired schools as well as earning scholarships.

Admissions Timeline

Let’s break this crazy process down into manageable, stress-minimizing milestones.

How Long Does It Take to Get Accepted

Each college has its own deadlines and decision release dates, which range from a few weeks to several months. 

The overall process generally spans from fall to spring of your senior year.

To maintain momentum, keep a close eye on:

1. Application deadlines: These vary by college and by application type (Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision).

2. Test registration deadlines: For the SAT and ACT tests, be aware of test dates and registration deadlines, allowing time for potential retakes.

3. Financial aid deadlines: Federal, state, and institutional financial aid each have distinct deadlines. Don't miss out on a piece of these pies.

Staying Organized Throughout the Process

Organization is key to staying on top of your college admissions journey. 

Apply these strategies:

1. Create a master calendar to track deadlines, test dates, college visits, and interview appointments.

2. Establish a folder or binder system that keeps your applications, essays, transcripts, and other documents organized and easily accessible.

3. Utilize email alerts and reminders to stay informed about upcoming dates and commitments.

4. Regularly communicate with counselors, teachers, and family members throughout the process to share progress, concerns, and important updates.

You got this!

Paying for College

Figuring out how to pay for college can be a daunting task, but it's one of the most (if not THE most) important parts of the college application process. 

Here are some ideas and resources to help you develop a plan of action.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities

Stay open-minded to all available financial aid resources. 

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal aid, including grants, work-study, and loans. Many colleges use this information to award their own institutional aid too.

Look for scholarships offered by organizations, foundations, and professional associations. 

Pay attention to eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines. 

• Federal grants: https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/grants

• Scholarship resources: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/scholarship-search

• Local opportunities: Contact your high school counselor or college advising office

Alternative Funding Ideas

Consider additional funding options if scholarships and financial aid do not cover all college-related expenses. Some ideas to explore include:

It’s entirely possible that you might have even more questions now… which is understandable. There’s a lot of information coming at you. 

That’s why it’s a full-time job to stay up-to-date on it. Enter the college counselors of March Consulting.

The Pros And Cons Of Early Decision II

Pros And Cons Of Early Action

Pros And Cons Of Restricted Early Action

For more insight, take a look at Stanford’s restricted early action policy or Cal Tech’s.

How Do I Choose Between Early Decision vs Early Action vs Regular Decision?

Do your research because schools on your college list might make the early decision vs early action choice for you. 

Otherwise, these questions can help. 

If the answer’s yes, it’s worth considering an early application option. If the answer’s no, regular decision might be best.

• Does one of your top three schools offer early action or early decision? 
• If that school said yes, would you go?
• Have you looked at financial aid implications? Are you in a position to accept what you might (or might not) get? 
• Are you in the top 25% in terms of test scores and grades?
• Are your GPA, extracurriculars, and application materials strong enough yet? 
• Have you put enough time and effort into your application to feel proud?
• Do you match the school’s mission/vision? Do they match yours?
• Have you demonstrated interest?
• Again, are you 100% sure you’d go there if they said yes?

Still on the fence? Take a look at this early decision vs regular decision spreadsheet that Jeff Levy and Jeannie Kent produce yearly, examining what percentage of applicants get accepted early vs regular decision at the top 200-ish schools. 

It doesn’t mean you’re absolutely more likely to get in if you apply early decision vs early action, but it may inspire you to commit to early - or roll the dice on regular decision. 

At March Consulting, we recommend applying early ONLY if it is to YOUR benefit. 

If it doesn’t feel right, set yourself up for success with regular decision deadlines.

Want expert help making these tough decisions? Reach out to us with questions. We can provide you with a solid game plan for creating a stellar college list and the strongest possible college applications.