Starting College

Hey, I've been wondering, at what age do most students enter college? Is there a common age or does it vary?

Majority of students in the United States typically start college around the age of 18 or 19. This is usually right after high school graduation, and it's considered the "traditional" path. However, that doesn't mean it's the only path or the "correct" path.

There's a degree of variation and it tends to depend on a few factors. For example, some students might take a gap year after high school to focus on personal development, travel, volunteering, or work, and therefore would begin a college at the age of 19 or 20. Others might enter college early through early college high school or dual-enrollment programs, which allow high school students to take college courses for credit. This might lead to students starting a full-time college schedule at 16 or 17.

In addition, there are also "non-traditional" students who may start college at a later age, often due to career changes, delays in their education due to family or personal circumstances, or a decision to return to school after serving in the military or spending time in the workforce. This group can begin college at any age, even into their 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond.

In sum, while 18 or 19 is the "typical" age to start college for many, the actual age can vary depending on an individual's personal circumstances, decisions, and educational journey. Time should not be seen as a barrier to education and every person's journey is certainly unique.