Here's a way to think about it:

Look for a school where you will be happy and successful. Those are the most important considerations -- more important than prestige. That sounds easy enough, but there are over 3500 colleges, universities, community colleges and trade schools in this country -- and none of them are perfect. By answering some basic questions, you will be able to narrow your list down to a couple dozen schools. Ideally, you want to apply to 5-7 schools. That list should include at least one or two affordable (in most cases, public) schools and at least one "safety" school -- a school where you know you will gain admittance.

Traditional School or Trade School?

All schools and all professions require students that can read, write, think, communicate, and problem solve. That said, certain fields of study -- the trades, police sciences, real estate, fire-fighting, EMT, for example -- are not as readily offered at 4-year schools. Community College or a trade school is a good choice for these careers. (See the Resources page for a list of local and national options.)

Small School or Large School?

At a small school you may get more individual attention from your professors; a large school may have a more diverse student population and more course offerings. A large school may seem intimidating at first, especially coming from Rappahannock. After a few weeks, you may love the feeling of diversity and excitement.

Single Sex or Co-ed?

Many single-sex schools are a part of a consortium of schools -- so there is no lack of options for a social life, if you decide to go this route. Some students feel that they learn better in a single sex environment.

In-state or out-of-state?

We are lucky in Virginia to have many excellent, affordable public schools, including GMU, JMU, UVA, Tech, University of Mary Washington, William and Mary, and Christopher Newport. On the other hand, going to an out-of-state school can expose you to a new environment and culture (an education in itself!).

What about difficulty of work-load and competition for admittance

Each school has a web site and each web site has an "Admissions" section. By comparing the school's statistics with your own grade point average (GPA) and test scores (SAT/ACT), you can determine whether you are a good candidate for them and they for you. Books comparing schools are available in the Next Step office (Peterson's, Barron's, The Princeton Review, and others).

4-year or 2-year?

In general 4-year schools ("Colleges" or "Universities") offer Bachelor's degrees; 2-year schools ("Community Colleges" or "Junior Colleges") -- offer Associates degrees. 2-year Colleges sometimes have degrees not available at 4-year schools. (See Frequently Asked Questions). Our most popular 2-year schools include Lord Fairfax Community College (Warrenton/Middletown), Germanna Community College (Fredricksburg/Culpeper area), Northern Virginia Community College (Manassas/No. Virginia), and Piedmont Community College (Charlottesville).

Urban, Suburban, or Rural?

The only way to get a sense of a school is to visit. Some urban schools have a great "campus" feel to them. Some don’t. Some rural schools feel cramped or isolated while others seem familiar and friendly. Go and see! You might be surprised by what you like.