Seven Steps to Selecting an Online College or University

By Daniel Z. Kane

Online education has come a long way in the last twenty years. Traditional and distance education colleges combine to offer many more online degree programs than ever.

In fact, approximately 300 colleges and universities offer online degrees. The bad news is that because there are so many choices, prospective students sometimes delay their enrollment while trying to decide which online college or university to attend. If you follow the following suggestions, you won't get stuck in that trap.

1. Start by going online and selecting between five and a dozen online colleges which offer the major of your choice. Make sure all are accredited by agencies approved by the U.S. Department of Education.

2. Spend some time carefully reviewing the websites of the colleges on your initial list, and take good notes. Drop from the list any colleges about which you are not enthusiastic. However, do not eliminate any colleges on the basis of cost at this point as financial aid may make them more affordable than you think.

3. Request information from any college or university remaining on your list. Do not be concerned if your list is still long: it probably means that you have done a good job making your initial selections. Similarly, do not be concerned if your list includes only a few colleges. Remember that, in the end, it just takes one.

4. You will almost surely get a telephone call from an admissions representative at every institution you contact. Have questions prepared and take notes as you speak; don't trust your memory.

5. Be sure to ask about financial aid, job placement services, and the availability of academic assistance if you require it.

6. Apply for admission to your top choices.

7. Complete the Free Federal Financial Aid Form (FAFSA) and have the results sent to all of the colleges to which you applied.

It is not difficult to select an online college or university which will help you achieve your professional goals. Neither is it hard to apply for financial aid. Just follow the tips above, ask for help if you need it, and don't rush to judgment. It's really that simple.

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