Tips for the College Application Process After Dropping Out

I dropped out of high school but I'm planning to go back and eventually apply to college. Are there any specific tips or advice on the application process for someone in my situation?

Absolutely, taking your educational journey at your own pace is certainly commendable and there are steps to be taken that could make your application process smoother.

First, you should be thinking about obtaining your GED if you have not already. Colleges generally require students to have a high school diploma or a GED in order to apply.

Next, consider attending community college. This is a great way to transition back into a school environment, and oftentimes, good performance in community college classes can make a potential applicant more attractive to four-year institutions. Not to mention, many states have transfer agreements between their community colleges and four-year universities.

In your application, it's important to address your high school dropout honestly in your application essay. It's a unique part of your story and can demonstrate your resilience and desire to better yourself through education.

When it comes to letters of recommendation, consider asking for one from people who you worked with during your time off from school, whether that's someone from your job or from a volunteer organization. They can speak to your work ethic and character, not to mention resilience.

Lastly, make use of tools like CollegeVine to guide you through the college application process and to help you find a college that fits your needs and aspirations best.

Remember that the path to a higher education is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Everyone's path is unique, and returning to school after dropping out demonstrates incredible determination and resilience. Best of luck on your journey, and don't hesitate to ask more questions!