Find the Best Fit.

Find the school that’s right for you by doing the research, yourself. Think about (and make a list) of what’s important to you. The list should include both things like whether or not the school offers your major or desired program, but also how well attending will be a good fit for your life. Both factors are important in finishing your degree.

Consider looking for a school that (among other things):

• Offers the major or training program I want to pursue
• Has classes at times that work for my schedule or offers online options (to accommodate work, volunteer, or family responsibilities)
• Provides support for students like me (for example first-generation students, students of color, parents, adults returning to education)
• Has a reputation for providing academic support when students need help in class (writing centers, tutoring, low student-teacher ratios)
• Offers Credit for Prior Learning Exams (CLEP) to recognize the knowledge and skills I have already gained through work
• Is located near me or that I can get to without significant barriers

Ask others for advice and learn from there experiences, but remember this decision is yours. Finding your best fit is key to your success.

Prepare Financially

As soon as you start thinking about going to school, start thinking about how to pay for it.

• Consider your personal financial situation and how you will for tuition, fees, and supplies (like books or tools) and also cover living expenses. Use Next Steps Budget Estimator to help estimate costs.
• Be realistic about how going back to school might affect your ability to work and maintain your current income.
• Learn about the financial aid process and the opportunities for getting grants, scholarships, and student loans to cover costs.
• Make a budget that maps out your plan from year one through completion.

Identify Your Support System

Whether you are a recent high school graduate or an adult going to college or entering a new training program, set up a support system before you start. What will you need to be successful and who needs to be on your support team to help with those things?

• Set up a meeting or call with an enrollment or academic advisor at the school you plan to attend as soon as you can. These advisors will help answer your questions and connect you with important people in financial aid and student support services at the university. It’s their job to know how to help.
• With help from an advisor, connect to one or two organizations at the school and start building your network there. Colleges have academic support offices/group and student organizations that may interest you (for adults too).
• Talk to family and friends and tell them how you hope they can help. They can provide mentorship, tutoring, emotional support (like care packages from home), childcare, transportation, and other things that will help you succeed.
• As soon as you start school, find ways to meet up with other students in your program to collaborate with, learn from, and in some cases…commiserate with!