What To Know Before You Go

There are a number of things that you need to know before you apply to any school, college or institute of higher learning. A good place to start can be a visit to their website or a visit to the school to learn about what programs that they offer and the specific requirements for each degree.

In a conversation with an official of a local technical institute, I learned that there are several requirements for entering school and that the more popular degrees can have a waiting list. It seems that some of the more popular careers can have a large number of applicants and the class size can have limited seating. Both of these things can result in a waiting list and more strict requirements for entry.

Here is a sample of the requirements from one technical institute. A high school diploma or certificate of equivalency of high school graduation is required for some programs.

Enrollment will not be complete until the following items have been reviewed by the school:

1. Application for enrollment.

2. Assessment which consist of: American college testing: ASSET, Career Skills test. Adult Education Students will be administered the TABE.

3. Transcript of High School Credit or GED test results.

There is tuition and financial aid to consider along with the different required tests. If you have not taken the required tests, there are usually several opportunities to take entrance tests and many schools offer practice tests to help someone prepare for making a higher grade on the exams.

A review of the programs offered is very important. Each program can have a different requirement of time and money. When you review the programs, you may find a program of interest that you did not realize was available or a program that would serve as an entry level study into a profession to allow you to receive a degree, get a job with that degree, start earning money to allow you to go back later and get advanced training.

As you look through the degree programs, you will often find the name of the advisor or instructor for that program so you can learn more about the requirements and see if that program is what you thought it was or offered you the training that you are seeking. Many programs require specific tests for that degree as well as a minimum test score on that test for entry.

If you are searching on the web, you will find some very helpful information but it is always wise to make sure that the latest information is posted on the website. An email to the college or a phone call may save you a lot of time if some data has changed and has not been posted to the website.

Some time early in the process, it would be very beneficial to talk with a professional at the college. There is a very good reason to consult with an admissions councilor or facility advisor. They have the knowledge of the programs offered, the time required for completion and they are there to assist you in being successful in your academic pursuits. They will be very aware of the assistance provided by the school such as financial aid, state programs, federal programs and child care facilities. This information will be very helpful and can be all the difference between success and failure in your college pursuits.