If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to return to college, or attend for the first time, and become one of the over 20 million projected to be enrolled in the coming year, we have some tips to help you ensure your college success. To prevent your resolution winding up like those of so many others, follow these strategies.
5 Strategies to Succeed in College
1. Get help finding the right college
According to the U.S. Department of Education, there were 4,627 degree granting institutions in 2015. That’s a lot of choices. Chances are you have narrowed your list down to a select few, but finding out about costs, financial aid, and other important information can be difficult and very time-consuming. Seeking out a counselor who specializes in finding that information is a wise strategy.
2. Get credit for prior education and experience
A 2015 study reported that over 37% of college students transferred colleges at least once, and 45% of those transferred more than once. Shockingly, a federal study said that, on average, an entire semester of credit was lost by transferring students. Around 40% lost all their credits when transferring! Colleges have differing policies regarding how many credits they accept, and how they are applied. Once again, finding a counselor who is familiar with the different college policies saves time - and can save a great deal of money.
3. Graduate sooner by avoiding unnecessary classes
A National Center for Education Statistics report estimated that 40% of college students attending four-year colleges fail to graduate within six years. One of the top reasons given for dropping out was a lack of motivation, or boredom. Wouldn’t it be nice to avoid taking classes that have little, or no, bearing on your major? You can – there are options for “testing out” at most colleges. Similar to transfer policies, schools vary on what courses are available for credit-by-exam, and finding a counselor who knows which courses qualify is a wise strategy for college success.
4. Save money on tuition and books
According to the College Board, tuition and fees for the 2017-2018 school year averaged $9,970 for residents attending a public school, and $25,620 for out-of-state students. Credit-by-exam programs allow you to potentially obtain your degree in half the time - or less - than traditional methods, saving thousands in tuition and fees.
5. Use learning methods that suit you
For some students, the on-campus classroom environment suits them best. For others, especially those with work, family, or other life obligations, an online option is needed. Not all online options are equal, however. The best online class is one where there is the same live interaction and quality instruction found in a traditional setting.
Bonus Strategy
Combine the first five strategies into one plan – take advantage of the services and programs offered by Achieve Test Prep. Our counselors work with you to find the college that fits you best, and our credit-by-exam programs offer the flexibility of year-round classes day or night (and weekends) either on one of our many campuses nationwide, or through our live, online virtual classrooms.
Get a great start to your new year. Find out more about how our accelerated credit-by-exam program can save you time and money over traditional programs by contacting Achieve Test Prep today!
*This article was re-published with updated statistics.
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