Research Questions for College Applicants?

As I start thinking about college applications, I want to make sure I ask the right questions. What are some good research questions I should be asking about colleges I'm interested in?

As you begin researching colleges, it's essential to ask questions that address the academic, extracurricular, social, and financial aspects of the schools you're considering. Here are some important research questions to consider:

Academics:

1. What majors and minors are offered, and how do they align with my interests and career goals?

2. What is the student-to-faculty ratio, and what is the average class size?

3. Do they offer undergraduate research opportunities, internships, or co-op programs?

4. Can students design their own majors or pursue double majors?

5. How accessible are professors and what kind of academic support is available (tutoring, writing centers, etc.)?

Extracurriculars:

1. What types of clubs, organizations, volunteer opportunities, or sports are available on campus?

2. Are there any specialized programs or resources available on campus to support my interests (e.g., leadership, entrepreneurship, service)?

3. What is the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, and what resources (cultural centers, affinity groups) are available?

4. What kind of opportunities exist for study abroad or other global learning experiences?

Campus Life:

1. How would current students describe the campus culture and community?

2. What are the housing options like (dorms, apartments, living-learning communities)?

3. What activities and events happen on campus and how do they support student engagement and well-being?

4. What is the surrounding area like and what off-campus activities are popular among students?

5. How is campus safety addressed and what resources are provided?

Financial Aid & Admissions:

1. How much does tuition and attendance cost, and what is the average financial aid package offered to students with similar backgrounds?

2. Are there merit-based scholarships available, and what are the requirements for those?

3. What is the school's policy on need-based financial aid (need-blind, meets 100% demonstrated need)?

4. What is the acceptance rate and what is the typical profile of admitted students (GPA, test scores, extracurricular involvement)?

5. Does the school have Early Decision, Early Action, or other application options, and how do they impact acceptance rates?

Take the time to research these topics for each school you're interested in and consider reaching out to current students, alumni, or college representatives to gather additional perspectives. As you start gathering information, it will be easier to compare colleges and narrow down your list to those that best fit your goals, needs, and preferences. Good luck with your college search!