Deciding on a College - when?

Hi guys! I'm rounding up my junior year and starting to think about the whole 'picking a college' thing... When is it that most high school students decide on a university that they want to apply to? And are there any known factors that can help with the decision process?

Most students commonly start honing in on their top college choices during their junior year of high school, typically after they've taken a few standardized tests (like the SAT or ACT) and have a sense of where their grades are likely to fall. However, the actual "decision" to apply to a particular set of universities generally happens at the start of the senior year, before application deadlines start to kick in, usually between October to January for Regular Decision and a bit earlier for those considering Early Action or Early Decision.

Here are a number of factors that can facilitate this decision-making process:

Academic Fit: Consider the academic programs a university offers to ensure it caters to your intended field of study. Researching the faculty, curriculum, resources, and opportunities available can help you form an idea of the academic culture of each institution.

Location and Size: Reflect on whether you prefer an urban or suburban setting, a large university or a smaller one. Do you want a school known for a sense of community, or do you prefer institutions where you can enjoy more personal freedom?

Financial Considerations: Keep in mind tuition rates, potential scholarships, financial aid, and cost of living to ascertain what's realistic for you and your family. Don't forget to use colleges' Net Price Calculator to get an estimated cost of attendance.

Campus Culture: This is the "vibe" of the school which can be gauged by visiting the campus, talking to current students or reading forums. You want to make sure you feel comfortable and welcomed in the place you'll spend the next several years of your life!

Lastly, as you shortlist, opt for a mix of 'reach', 'target', and 'safety' schools to diversify, by degree of selectivity, the colleges you apply to.

Getting through this process can be complex and time-consuming, so starting early is always a good idea! Good luck with your research and college application journey.