Benefits Did you know that in 2005 a college graduate earned almost $20,000 a year more than a high school graduate? On average, bachelor's degree holders earn nearly $1 million more over the course of their careers than those holding only a high school diploma. The gap in earnings between people with some college and those with a high school diploma continues to widen. In fact, the earnings for workers with just a high school diploma dropped during the 1980s and 1990s, while the earnings of college graduates have increased.
| High school dropout | $22,470 |
|---|---|
| High school diploma | $31,538 |
| Associate degree (two-year degree) | $40,588 |
| Bachelor's degree (four-year degree) | $50,944 |
| Master's degree | $61,272 |
| Doctorate degree | $79,401 |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Educational Attainment in the United States, 2006.
In addition to greater earnings, studies have shown that individuals who have a college degree:
- Receive better health care benefits and vacation time.
- Are more likely to take white-collar jobs in office buildings.
- Have skills that allow them more flexibility to change jobs and to move.
- Make more informed consumer spending decisions.
- Have a greater appreciation for diversity.
- Have a higher life expectancy.
- Provide a better quality of life for their children.
- Have more hobbies and leisure activities.
Choosing a college There are many things to think about when searching for a college, including location, size, academics, extracurricular activities, and cost. Most likely, your search won't reveal one perfect college that matches all your interests and desires but will, instead, result in several colleges that should be considered good matches.
You should think about what kind of learning environment is best for you. Many families think a big name college will provide the best opportunities. This is not necessarily so. The college that provides the most opportunity and an environment best-suited to your academic and social needs is the one where you will be happiest.
To begin the college search process, students should think about what kind of learning environment is best for them. For example, if you prefer large or lecture-style classes, then consider a university over a small college. If you prefer small discussion, seminar groups, or single gender classes, perhaps a small college would be a better fit. Think about whether you prefer an urban or rural setting and the kinds of academics, living arrangements, and extracurricular activities that a college offers. For example, does it have a wide range of courses, study abroad opportunities, a cooperative education program, or a flexible academic calendar? How important are these features to you? How diverse is the student body in terms of geography, ethnicity, race, and religion? Does that matter? Do you want to go away to college or commute? If you want to live away, how far or how close do you want to be?
Whenever possible, visit the colleges that you are considering to gain a first-hand impression about the campus. If in-person visits aren't possible, you may be able to take a virtual tour of the campus at www.CollegeView.com.
Another family consideration for choosing a college is cost. Students and parents need to be realistic at the very beginning of the college search about what the family can or will be able to afford. At the same time, don't automatically write off a college due to its price tag. Most students (approximately 60 percent nationwide) today receive some form of financial aid-grants, scholarships, work-study employment or student loans. Be sure to review the Financing your education section for more information about financial aid.
Comparing the financial aid offers at the schools you have applied to can help in your decisionmaking. Use Nellie Mae's Award Letter Calculator to help you compare awards. Other online resources that can help with your college search include:
- www.CollegeAnswer.com
- www.AdventuresInEducation.org
- www.GoCollege.com
- www.CollegeBound.net
- www.PrincetonReview.com
Applying for admission For most college-bound students, the best place to begin the college admissions process is your high school guidance office. Your guidance counselor will be able to provide information about PSAT/SAT/ACT testing, including deadlines the tests. Your counselor also may provide you with a recommendation, information about scholarships available through your high school, and tips on specific schools that may be a good fit for you.
You may start with a list of schools and then narrow it down to three to five choices, including one "reach" and one "safety" school. Request college applications by early fall of your senior year so that you will be sure to meet the school's application filing deadline. Find out whether the school offers (or requires) an online or downloadable application, which can save time and postage.
Most colleges have several standard application requirements, including:
- An application form, including a personal essay about your education goals
- SAT/ACT testing scores
- High school transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Application fee (Fee waivers may be available for families who meet income guidelines; ask the college admissions office for more information.)
Some schools also may require a personal interview. If you're applying to an art or music program, you may be asked to audition or provide a portfolio of your work.
Here are some other sites that provide useful information about college admission:
College planning calendar Use the following guidelines for your college planning.
Junior year September
- Keep your grades up and begin researching colleges.
- Make a list of colleges to visit.
- Attend college and financial aid fairs.
- Schedule college visits.
October
- Take the PSAT.
November–April
- Practice filling out the FAFSA.
- Take the SAT and ACT exams if required.
- Start visiting colleges.
Senior year September–October
- Revise and update college list based on visits.
- Take or retake the ACT exam.
- Request letters of recommendation.
November–December
- Take or retake the SAT exam.
- Fill out and send in college applications.
January–February
- Complete your income taxes early.
- File the FAFSA.
- Submit college and state financial aid applications.
March
- Complete private scholarship applications.
April–June
- Review award letters and decide which college to attend. Send deposit.
- Complete federal loan forms and apply for private loans, if needed.
August
- Start packing!!!