Congratulations! You’ve worked hard, submitted applications, and now you have multiple university admissions offers to choose from. But how do you decide which college admissions decision is the best for you? Making the right choice is important, especially if it means moving far from home. There are multiple aspects to consider when evaluating your university options in the U.S. and we want to help you make the best decision. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re reviewing your offers. 

Understand the Financial Aspects 

University tuition and living costs can vary greatly between institutions. Consider the following financial realities:   

• Tuition Fees – Compare the cost of tuition at each university. Some schools may offer better value for your money and tuition can vary depending on if you’re an in-state, out-of-state, or international student.    

• Scholarships & Financial Aid – Check if you’ve been awarded any scholarships or if financial aid is available. Most U.S. schools require the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application for financial aid, but keep in mind that international students are not eligible to apply for FAFSA. Scholarships and private loans are other options for financial support.    

• Living Expenses/Room & Board – If you plan to live on campus, check to see what each university’s room and board fees are. Research the cost of living in each university’s city, as well. A university in a major metropolitan area may have higher rent and living costs compared to one in a smaller town, which is especially important to consider if you plan to live off-campus at all.  

• Meal Plans – While most university dining halls are “all you can eat,” they come with a cost! Review each school’s different meal plans and what type of dining options are available on campus.  

• Work Opportunities – Look into student work permits and on-campus job opportunities that may help cover expenses. 

Consider the Academic Programs 

Your university experience should help you achieve your academic and career goals, or help you broaden your horizons if you haven’t decided on a path yet. Ask yourself: 

• Does the university offer strong programs in your preferred area of study? If you have more than one preferred area, can you double major or add a minor?  

• Are there plentiful research opportunities or internships available for students? If you have a specific industry you are interested in working in, keep your university’s location in mind—you’ll want to make sure there are employers nearby that you’d be able to intern at!  

• What are the faculty credentials, and how experienced are the professors? 

• How flexible is the curriculum? Can you switch majors if you change your mind or take elective courses that interest you outside of your major?    

• Are there study aboard programs offered, and what are the parameters and requirements for participating?   

Look Into Career Pathways 

One of the biggest reasons to go to university is to prepare for your future career. You’ll want to find a university that’s committed to supporting its students’ career pathways. Be sure to investigate:  

• What internship and co-op programs are available that give real-world, experiential work experience. 

• Employment rates of recent graduates and the school’s connections and involvement with major companies.  

• If the university has a career center that assists students in understanding their career pathways and finding internships and jobs.

Evaluate the Student Life Environment

Since you’ll be spending several years at university, the campus and student life should feel like a good fit. It should be a place where you can thrive personally as well as academically. Consider:

• Campus size – Do you prefer a large university with tens of thousands of students or a smaller, more personal setting?   

• Student diversity – Will you be surrounded by people from a variety of different cultures and backgrounds, or is the school filled mostly with local, in-state students?   

• Clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities – Are there activities and student organizations that match your interests? Does the school allow for new student groups to be created if you have a passion that isn’t currently represented? 

• Housing options – Can youlive on campus, or will you need to rent an apartment? Are there defined residential communities you can join so you share a living space with other students who have similar backgrounds, interests or identities? 

Check the Support Systems for Students 

For many students, the transition to university in America and being away from home can be challenging, especially if you’re moving to a new country. It’s important to have the right support. Look for schools with: 

• International student offices that help with visas, housing, and adjusting to a new culture, as well as providing workshops and information sessions on a variety of other relevant topics. 

• Language support services, especially if your first language is not the language of instruction. 

• Counseling and mental health services for student well-being. 
• Student legal services that can provide free legal advice to students on a variety of matters. 

Think About Location and Lifestyle  

Your university’s location will shape your daily life and vastly impact the feeling and culture of the school. Consider: 

• Climate/Weather – Are you comfortable with hot summers, cold winters, or lots of rain and snow, or do you prefer somewhere with more temperate weather? 

• Transportation – Can you easily get around on foot, bike or public transportation, or will you need a car if you need to leave campus?

• City Size – Do you prefer a busy urban environment that allows for more experiences and conveniences nearby, or a smaller, quieter town? Do you want to be surrounded by nature so you can easily spend time doing outdoor activities like hiking? 

• Safety – Check crime rates and general safety for students in the area. Most universities have public safety or police departments that post annual security reports. 

Trust Your Instincts 

Sometimes, the best choice comes down to how you feel. If you’ve visited the campus (even virtually), did it feel welcoming? Could you picture yourself studying and making friends there? Consider reaching out to current students to hear about their experiences!

Making Your Final Decision

Once you’ve considered all these factors, make a list of pros and cons for each university if you’re still stuck between multiple options and decide which factors are most important to you. Talk to your family, teachers, or counselors if you need advice. In the end, choose the university that feels right for you academically, financially, and personally. 

No matter where you go, your success will depend on how you make the most of your opportunities. Sesameed is here to support you in your university admission process through our traditional counseling, university preparation courses, and a special course about responsible assistance from AI. We wish you the best in your applications, and in your final decisions. Contact us for guidance, anytime – and don’t forget to enjoy the journey!