How do you know if you’re ready to apply to college?
Getting ready to apply for college is an exciting time in your life. You have the opportunity to look at different schools, weigh your options and pick the best fit for you. But starting this chapter will take some careful planning.
How do you know if you’re ready to apply?
It might not be an easy question to answer, but you have everything you need to make the right decision for your future.
Ask yourself these four questions to know if you’re ready to start the college application process.
1. Have you earned the grades to qualify?
Whether you're a high school student starting freshman year, transferring from another school or you’re completely new to college, you need to be in good academic standing. Not only are grades important, but your ACT or SAT scores and letters of recommendation might also be taken into consideration for your admission.
Take your time studying and completing the necessary steps for each university you’re considering. Your readiness for college will be reflected in the strength of your application.
2. Have you reached out to ODU and other schools for information?
Not all schools are the same. For example, one university might require an interview to learn more about your future plans, while others may not. So, it’s important to know the details of each application. Lucky for you, most of the process can be completed online.
It’s also important to know your options for paying for college. When reaching out to colleges, ask about opportunities for financial aid and applying for scholarships. Financial assistance can help make your journey a little smoother.
If there’s anything else you’re curious about, get in touch with the university to get your questions answered.
3. Do you need to tell your family and job?
Being a college student won’t only change your life, but it may change the lives of those around you.
While your time at home or work may look different, you can still find ways to make a college schedule fit your life. You might consider going to school part-time, working at the university or taking online classes so you can add more flexibility to your day.
4. Are you considering how your time will change?
You already know your day-to-day schedule will change once you start classes, but how are you prepping for that shift?
It doesn’t matter if you’re new to college or returning to finish your degree – time management skills are key to being a successful student. You can start by planning your time more carefully so when classes start, you’re ready to tackle the day with confidence.
Are you ready to apply for college?
ODU offers more than 120 programs online, for learners at all levels in a variety of disciplines. Whether you want to get your undergraduate degree, finish what you started, or go back for a graduate degree, ODU has a solution for you. Fill out the form below to connect with a coach to help you get started on your journey.