What is the best way to decide on a college or career school?
Wondering how to choose a college, university, or career school in Connecticut? Here is a checklist to help you decide if the school is right for you.
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Your goals
Does your chosen career path require a license, certification, or specific degree? Narrow your search to find schools that offer programs in your field of interest.
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School accreditation
Verify if Connecticut’s Office of Higher Education (OHE) approves the schools on your list. You can also contact the accrediting agency from which a school may claim approval to check the school’s standing.
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Feedback from an onsite visit
Before you enroll, tour the schools, interview students in the programs, and ask if the schools will allow you to observe the classes or courses of interest.
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Student catalog
Get a copy of the student catalog and enrollment agreement. Review all binding terms, such as school withdrawal, termination, and refund policies. The agreement should also list conditions, costs, and student disclosures. Make sure that what the school advertises matches the catalog and course syllabus.
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Cost of attending the school
Be aware of all the costs associated with studying at a given school. That includes tuition, fees, travel, books, room and board, and any other expenses.
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Financial aid
Before you enroll, figure out how much financial aid you need and what types are available. Check if the school offers specific scholarships or grants and how to apply for them.
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School mission
Find out about the school’s values and approach to higher education and career training.
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Campus culture
How does the school make you feel? Get an idea of what campus life is like. For example, do you feel safe? Does the class size fit your learning style? Are there places to eat, study, hang out?
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Job placement rates
Check what career services are available to students. You can also request to see the school’s student completion and job placement rates. Be aware that a school may provide job placement services but cannot guarantee employment.
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Internship opportunities
Are there any internship opportunities available through the school? Does the school help you find internships?
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School reputation for your major or program
Check the programs and majors against industry standards. Is the school respected for these programs and majors?
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Paperwork and documents
Find out what paperwork the school needs for you to apply or enroll. Be sure to have everything in writing, signed by someone from the school, and keep copies of all your documents.
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Transferability of credits
Verify the school's policy so you can understand if your credits can be transferred to (or from) another institution.