Most families have more time to travel together to visit colleges, and most offices are open during the week. In fact, many families combine vacations with college visits.

When planning your visits, be sure to schedule a tour and an interview as well as meetings with professors and coaches, if they are available. Should you become interested in a college, plan a second visit later in the year to include such things as class visits, meetings with financial aid personnel, and an overnight stay.

What is the best way to organize an effective and productive search?

Beginning the college search process can be challenging, but students should not let it overwhelm them. Begin by taking your own personal inventory. Make the best use of your time by knowing what you are looking for in a college (e.g. location, academic programs, student diversity, sports programs, activities, social life, graduate school placement rates, facilities, reputation, class size, and financial aid). Prioritize your list and continually review it to make changes as needed.

What are the best sources of information on colleges?

Personal sources are very important. Speak with your guidance counselor, teachers, family, graduates and friends. Read college and national publications and magazines, such as Loren Pope’s Colleges That Change Lives, The College Board’s College Handbook, and Fiske’s Selective Guide to Colleges. View web sites, such as www.collegeboard.com, www.collegeview.com, www.collegelink.com, and www.petersons.com. You can also attend college fare nights; view publications of the schools that interest you; visit college and university Web sites; and meet with college representatives when they come to your school.

How many schools should a student should visit?

It depends on the student, but as a rule it is important to visit enough schools to provide a good sense of the differences between large and small colleges, urban and rural settings, etc. Be sure to make the best use of your time by knowing what you are looking for before you set up a visit.

Is there a recommended number of schools to which a student should apply?

Most students apply to between three and eight colleges. Your final list should be well thought out. Be sure to meet with your parents and guidance counselor as you finalize your list. Apply to colleges with a range of selectivity. Include "reach" schools (top choices that may be out of your range), "probables" (ones to which you will likely be accepted), and "sure things" (ones to which you are certain to be accepted).

How does one go about the applying to college?

There are essentially three ways to apply to college. A student can (1) request and fill out an application provided by the institution; (2) complete a common application provided through the high school guidance office; or (3) apply on line at the college or university Web site.

What will schools be looking for when reviewing the application of a prospective student?

Colleges generally look at the following factors in reviewing your application: (1) overall academic record, which includes grade point average, class rank, curriculum, etc.; (2) test scores; (3) recommendations from guidance counselors and teachers; (4) extra-curricular interests; (5) your essay; and (6) your interview.

How should you best prepare your application?

There are several important things to consider as you prepare your application: (1) read and follow instructions carefully; (2) type or write neatly; (3) proofread; (4) answer all questions; (5) be honest and, most important, be yourself; and (6) make sure that all parts of your application (test scores, school report, transcript, essay, references, etc.) arrive on time by being aware of all deadlines.