You Got Accepted To College - What's Next?

Congratulations on getting in to college!

It might feel tempting to accept the first offer you get, especially if it's from your dream school. If you've been accepted to more than one school, or are still waiting to hear back from some, do these six things before saying yes to any college offers.

6 Steps To Take After Getting Admitted

1. Wait for all your options.
2. Do your research… again.
3. Talk it out.
4. Reflect.
5. Access your student portal.
6. Keep track of deadlines.

Wait To See All Your Options

If you applied to more than one school, wait until you hear back from the others. Weigh the pros and cons of all your options before committing to the first school that accepts you. 

Do More Research

If you applied to a college, you’ve likely done some research, and maybe even visited campus. Now that attending a particular college went from a possibility to a reality, you will likely view things a little bit differently. 

Before making a final decision, consider visiting (or revisiting) the campus as a first-year student. If a campus visit isn’t in the cards, use online resources to go on a virtual campus visit.  

Talk Through Your College Choices

Talk to your family and friends about your different college options. Walk through the pros and cons of each one. Be sure to consider the costs associated with attending each school.  

Reflect On Why You Applied

Read your notes from your campus visit. If you haven’t already, make a college list to compare potential schools. Know what’s most important to you about each option (cost, distance from home, majors offered, student population, etc.).

Sit quietly and picture your first day of college. What campus are you visualizing?  

Review Your Resources

Many schools have a student portal or other resources that hosts all the pertinent information and deadlines for admitted students. Activation details are usually found in your acceptance materials.  Be sure to read all admissions materials carefully so you don't miss crucial information.

Keep Track of Deadlines

Read through your acceptance letter completely and take note of important dates. Dates to keep in mind may include the deadlines:

• Take placement tests 
• Sign up for orientation 
• Apply for housing 
• Submit final high school transcript 
• File your financial aid documents 
• Accept admission (and pay the acceptance fee, if applicable)  

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