Your first step on your college jounrey is EXPLORATION. Learn about different schools and their program offering. Start by asking yourself which type of career you want. Then find the programs that can make your dreams a reality. If you are undecided about a career, that's okay. Consider what kind of campus environment you want and begin to narrow down your options. College is a unique time in your life when you expand your cultural, intellectual and social horizons. Enjoy the journey.

College Search: If you are interested in comparing schools across the US, start here with a user friendly college search engine.

Big Future: Similar to college search, BigFuture is another college search engine offered by CollegeBoard.

Minnesota College Fairs: College fairs can be a great way to discover colleges by talking with representatives about the school environment and program offerrings. They also often provide helpful tips for your application process.

Occupational Outlook Handbook: This site helps students compare and contrast occupations by highest paying, fastest growing, most new jobs, occupation groups and field of degrees. It also gives overview of degrees and experience required for an occupation.

Minnesota Private Colleges: Learn about the uniqueness of private schools and what Minnesota has to offer.

Minnesota State Colleges & Universities: Explore public colleges in Minnesota

Now may be a good time to take a look at the Interest Inventory resources to help narrow down careers you are interested in.

Interest Inventory

Your next step is to plan! Compare schools, look at their application process, and make plans to meet their requirements. 

College Comparison Worksheet: Here is a great resources for comparing schools.

MakeMeAFreshman: This is a free personalized step-by-step checklist for students to help with the college application process. Check it out and see if this can help you stay organized.

College Application Worksheet: Use this worksheet to plan for your college application process.

Tips for Writing an Essay and Preparing for an Interview: Some application processes require an application or an interview. Take a look at these tips to prepare for these.

Essay Resources: Here are some additional essay tips by CollegeBoard to help students write a winning college application essay.

Letter of Recommendation: Some application processes require a letter of recommendation. Learn more about how to get one from CollegeBoard.

Teacher Recommendation Request: Take a look at this document to learn how to ask a teacher for a recommendation.

Now you have explored your college and degree options, you have planned and prepared for your application, and now it is time to start!

Apply: Applications are often done on the school of your choice's website. Before you hit the sumbit button, make sure to double check all your information. If you had to write an essay ask a parent or teacher to proofread it for you and give feedback. 

I Applied. Now What?: Here is a resource to begin your next phase of planning after your application is sumbitted.

FAFSA Workflow: Here is an overview of the FAFSA to help students begin their next phase of their college journey.

Next take a look at FAFSA resources.
FAFSA