Applying to Schools: Getting Started

Academics

• What is the student/faculty ratio and average class size?
• What is the percentage of graduates that attend college and where?
• Does the school offer special programs of interest to you (i.e., English as a Second Language, Learning Differences programs, Post-Graduate year)?
• What is the nature of the curriculum?
• How stringent are the grading standards?
• Does the school have a particular strength in a specific academic department?
• What student progress reports are given to parents and how frequently?
• Are academic tutors and special instructors available and supported?

Extra-Curriculars

• Are you interested in a school with an extensive athletic program?
• Does the school have theater, art, or music programs?
• What kinds of intramural sports, community service, or other school activities are offered?
  
• Is after-school tutoring available?

School Facilities and Resources

• Are classroom and library facilities adequate, crowded, commodious?
• What computer and laboratory facilities are available at the school?
• Does the school have a counseling/evaluation program?
• Do recreation and athletic resources meet your expectations?
• Does the school have theater, art, or music resources?
• Is the physical plant well-maintained and modern?
• What is the nature and extent of security and supervision on campus?
• Are the school’s surrounding areas safe?
• Does the school’s food service meet your dietary needs?
• Does the school provide transportation for academic, athletic and other events?

Tuition and Financial Aid

• What are the costs of tuition, room, board, and books?
• Are there additional fees for activities and services?
• What travel costs are involved?
• What is the payment schedule required by the school?
• What financial resources are offered by the school?
• What forms are required to receive financial aid and what percentage of students receive financial aid?

Go to next topic: Preliminary Research.