Compare financial aid summaries received from colleges and not just the sticker price, but the actual costs (tuition minus scholarships, grants, etc).
How much will it cost to travel to the college and does the student plan on traveling back home over the breaks?
Does the student plan on working? Is work-study offered? Are there jobs on campus or close to campus if there isn’t any work-study?
Community
Can the student picture themselves on the campus after the college visit?
Is there a variety of student organizations and events happening that align with the student’s interests?
What does the college do to create a sense of community?
Campus
Does the student care about campus amenities? Fitness center? Dining hall? Recreation opportunities?
Will the student’s residence hall be close to the hub of campus and to their classes?
If not, is there campus transportation or does the student have a car?
Faculty
What’s the percentage of faculty who have a terminal (the highest level) of degrees in their field?
What’s the faculty to student ratio?
Is the college known for faculty mentorship with its undergraduate students?
Location
Does the student want the college to be secondary to the hustle and bustle of city life or is the student interested in immersion in academic and student life?
What preconceptions does the student have about urban, city, or rural colleges?
Does the college provide access to hands-on (off-campus) opportunities that align with the student’s interests?
