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Undergraduate Study
Choosing the Best Colleges for You

"I pinpointed the colleges of my choice by reflecting upon my own needs and on what the respective schools could offer."
— Psychology student from Malaysia

Choosing universities from thousands of miles away presents some challenges — especially when there are so many great colleges to choose from in the United States. But if you plan ahead and do your research carefully, you will come up with a manageable shortlist of colleges that match your needs. Every student is different, and when making your choices you should consider carefully the factors that are important to you in both your education and your lifestyle. This section discusses what academic, lifestyle, and other factors to consider when putting together a list of around 10 to 20 colleges, and it offers guidelines on where to get further help and information. You should begin this process of reflection and research 12 to 18 months before you want to start studying in the United States.

Sources of Information to Help You Choose
US Educational Information and Advising Centers, College Websites and e-mail, college searches on the web, U.S. college fairs and visits, visiting campuses, and educational consultants and recruiting agents.

Academic Considerations
Accreditation and recognition of degrees, information on "majors", academic emphasis, selectivity, degree program structure, academic standing, and teacher-to-student ratios.

Lifestyle Considerations
Cost, housing, location and size.

College Environment
College social life, fraternities and sororities, international students, affiliations, and extracurricular activities.

Other Considerations

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