Whether this is going to be your first college experience or you are looking to pursue a postgraduate degree, the prospect of choosing a university can feel overwhelming at times. After all, this is somewhere you'll be spending a fair few years of your academic career, so it's understandable that you'll want to get the decision right.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic having implications for education, it's now possible to study abroad or attain a globally recognized qualification at an international institution such as the American International College in your home country. This means that the world is your oyster when it comes to finding the right university. As daunting as the decision may seem, rest assured that there is a school out there that will meet all your needs and expectations. To help you along the way when it comes to may your decision, here are some key things you should consider:

Course Offerings

To start, you'll need to decide what you want to study. Remember, your primary reason for going to college is to pursue further education. It’s important for you to pick a place where you think you'll be able to experience academic success. The best way to do this is to start researching the degree programs on offer. In addition to establishing whether an institution has the course you are looking to study, you should also consider the syllabus itself as well as class sizes.

Affordability

Each college or university will have its own fee structure, and it's up to you (and possibly your parents) to decide what you can reasonably afford. If you've got your heart set on attending a college that seems beyond the scope of your budget, consider applying for academic scholarships or financial aid packages.

Location

The next thing you'll have to consider is location. Moving away to attend college is an exciting experience for young students, as it offers them a new sense of independence and allows them to stand on their own two feet. It can be a great adventure, but relocating to a new city or country isn't for everyone and there are lots of students who prefer to remain closer to home. Although your primary reason for being at college should be to study, it doesn't hurt to have fun while you are at it. Choose a location that is conducive to your lifestyle, whether that means being in the middle of a big city or close to hiking trails.

Extra Curricular Offerings

On a related note, if there is a particular passion or hobby that you intend to pursue while at college, you should investigate the opportunities available for that pursuit at the institution of your choice. Maintaining a health work/life balance is a key factor in a person's development. In fact, it is something that many employers look favorably upon. Make sure that the colleges on your shortlist offer the extracurriculars that interest you. 

Choosing where to go to college is a big decision and certainly one you can't take lightly. Invest some time doing your research, speaking to current or former students and weighing up all your options before taking the plunge.