How To Get Started with College Planning
There’s a lot to think about when it comes to college, but you don’t need to have all the answers right now. BigFuture has tools to help you figure out what matters to you, explore your options, and take it one step at a time.
1. Start with your dream job, then search for colleges 🔎
Not sure where to begin? Start with what you like. Explore careers that match your interests using BigFuture Career Search. Think about what kind of job you’d want to have one day by taking the career quiz.
Once you’ve found a few careers that excite you, check out the recommended majors for those paths. Then, head to the College Search tool and find colleges that match what you’re looking for. You can filter by things like location, major, campus life, and more.
You can save schools you’re interested in to keep track of your list. Opt in to Student Search ServiceTM, so colleges that match your interests can reach out to you directly.
2. Set Your SAT Target Score 🎯
Once you have a list of schools, look up the average SAT scores for admitted students. Use that to set a realistic SAT target score. It gives you a clear goal to work toward and helps you stay motivated.
3. Think About College Visits 🤔
Visiting a college, whether in person or online is one of the best ways to imagine your future there. Walk around the campus, check out the dining hall, or peek into a dorm room. Can you see yourself living and learning there?
If visiting in person isn’t possible, don’t worry. You can still explore schools through virtual tours, videos, and student panels. Pay attention to how the campus feels, what students are involved in, and what kind of support is available.
Here’s a college visit checklist to help you make the most of your time—whether you’re walking around the campus or exploring it from your laptop.
4. Know the Types of Colleges 🧠
Every college experience looks a little different, and that’s a good thing. Understanding the types of colleges out there can help you find what feels like the right fit for you.
- Two-year colleges are a great option if you want to earn an associate degree, start your education at a lower cost, or transfer to a four-year school later.
- Four-year colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degrees and often have more campus activities, majors, and housing options.
- Public colleges are funded by the state, which usually makes them more affordable—especially if you stay in-state.
- Private colleges can be more expensive, but they may offer more financial aid and smaller class sizes.
- Multiple pathways to success: College isn’t one-size-fits-all. Trade schools, technical program, and other hands-on learning paths can lead to career opportunities. What matters most is choosing the path that fits your goals and interests.
5. Keep Exploring ✨
You don’t have to figure it all out at once. Use BigFuture to save colleges, track deadlines, and discover scholarships as you go.