Guides and How-to’s for College and Grad School
Check out our extensive library of Guides and How-Tos for prospective college students, prospective graduate students, and students already in the process of earning an undergraduate or graduate degree.
From college admissions to grad school applications; from the best graduate school in your state to the best online college in the nation, we’ve got helpful resources for wherever you are in your academic career.
Guide to Applying for College
From selecting schools and submitting test scores to writing your personal statement and securing letters of recommendation, from connecting with faculty members and applying for federal loans to hitting application deadlines and anticipating that acceptance letter—you’ll likely spend well over a year applying for colleges. Find out what steps you must take to find, apply to, get into, and pay for the best college for you.
Guide at a glance
- The College Search
- Submitting Test Scores
- Applying for Colleges
- Getting Financial Aid
- Getting College Scholarships
- Choosing the Right College for You
How to Apply for Graduate School
Plan to earn a master’s degree or doctorate degree? Getting an advanced degree can help you enhance relevant skills and reach new career goals. With our guide for prospective graduate students, you’ll learn how to select, qualify for, and gain admission into the graduate schools or graduate programs of your choice.
Guide at a glance
- Selecting Grad Schools
- Graduate School Application Process
- Stand Out in Your Graduate School Applications
- Where to Shine
- Grad School Interview Tips
Guide to College for International Students
International students attending college or graduate school in the U.S. face a number of unique challenges. Read our Guide to College for International Students, a comprehensive look at attending college in the U.S., for advice on applying for a student visa, getting financial aid, earning scholarships, adjusting to American culture, and much more.
Guide at a glance
- How to Get a Student Visa
- Learn About American University Culture
- Financial Aid for International Students
- International Student Scholarships
- Research Student Support Resources Before You Arrive
- Set Up Important Accounts
- Study the Language
- Think Safety First
- Ask Questions and Seek Help When You Need It
College & University Accreditation Guide
Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency which indicates that a college, university or graduate school is meeting standards of quality, credibility, and currency. Find out why accreditation matters and how you can be sure your college or graduate school program has the right kind of accreditation.
Guide at a glance
- What is Accreditation?
- Why is Accreditation Important?
- How do colleges and universities get accreditation?
- What are the different types of accreditation?
- How do I know if my degree is accredited?
Guide to Paying for College
When it comes to the cost of college, the sticker price is only part of the story. Beyond tuition, you’ll be paying for housing, fees, food, text books, and more. But you may be able to factor in federal student aid and scholarships. In other words, paying for college can be complicated. Use our guide to simplify the process.
Guide at a glance
- Tuition for a College Degree-The Tip of the Iceberg
- How much does college really cost?
- Factors That Can Reduce the Cost of College
- Let’s Do the Math
- Is college worth the money?
- Getting the Best Return On Investment in Your College Education
Guide to Financial Aid in Higher Ed
The U.S. Department of Education provides more than $120 billion in federal student aid every year to help students pay for college, graduate school, or career school. Most U.S. citizens planning to attend an accredited college, university, or vocational school are eligible for some form of federal financial aid. Learn more about need-based grants, federal student loans, state-based college loans, tuition reimbursement, and other specialized financial aid programs.
Guide at a glance
- Filling out your FAFSA
- Qualifying for Student Loans
- What are need-based grants?
- Loan Repayment Options
- Loan Forgiveness and Tuition Reimbursement Programs
- Loan Refinancing
Guide to College and Graduate School Scholarships
Scholarships provide free money for college students and those who plan to attend graduate school. Read on to learn the difference between need-based grants and merit-based scholarships, get tips on improving your chances of earning a scholarship, and find out how to kick off your scholarship search whether you’re looking for the perfect college or preparing to earn a graduate degree.
Guide at a glance
- Grants vs. Scholarships: What’s the Difference?
- How to Prepare for Scholarship Application
- What are Scholarship Committees Looking For?
- When can you apply for scholarships?
- How many scholarships should you apply for?
- The Search for College Scholarships
- Completing Your Scholarship Applications
- Types of Scholarships
- Retaining Your Scholarship
Guide to Surviving College
College is difficult, expensive, and for many, can be a major lifestyle adjustment. Check out our tips on how you can survive college, get the most out of your experience, and walk away with a great degree!
It’s also important to feel safe at your college. Check out our ranking of the safest colleges in the United States.
Guide at a glance
- Critical Support Systems in College
- Health and Wellness in College
- Practice Savvy Internet Use in College
- Declaring a Major
- Transferring Schools
- Preparing for Graduation
Guide to College Study Skills
To succeed in college, you’ll need to adopt effective study habits and develop critical learning skills. This includes skills like managing your time, taking good notes, conducting effective research, and more. Read on for tips on developing your learning skills, studying more effectively for your exams, and successfully adhering to the rules of academic integrity.
