1. Write Down Your College Priorities...So Far

Write down on an index card or in the notes feature of your mobile phone your priorities for your ideal college from nice-to-haves to must-haves. When you see your priorities together in a list, it can help you understand what’s important to you and what isn’t.

If you’re not sure what you want in a college, you can get some ideas from blog posts in CollegeData's Resources to get ideas, as well as from your parents, older siblings, teachers, counselors, and friends who are already in college. Consider visiting a few college websites and even some campuses. Jot down anything you see or learn that appeals to you or that turns you off.

2. Divide your college priorities into three categories

Sort your priorities into three groups, "must-haves," "would-likes" and "tie-breakers".

• “Must-haves” are your non-negotiables. A college must have these qualities to stay on your list. These factors directly affect your ability to afford or succeed in college. Examples of “must-haves” might include specific course offerings, a strong reputation in your field of interest, small class sizes, high graduation and job placement rates, affordable tuition or essential support services.

• “Would-likes” are features that are preferred but not essential. You’d like the colleges on your list to have these qualities, but if they don’t, it’s not a deal breaker. Examples of “would-likes” might include the ability to double major, an honors program, Greek life, or strong school spirit.

• Tie-breakers are additional benefits that would be a bonus and could help you decide among similar schools. Examples of tie-breakers might be a campus with newer dorms or a newer student recreation center, beautiful architecture, quirky traditions, or proximity to outdoor activities.

3. Rank Your Priorities

Within each category, rank your college priorities the same way: as must-haves, would-likes, or tie-breakers, or simply put them in priority order. A helpful test for each quality might be:

• Must Have: “I cannot see myself attending a college without this.
• Would Like: “I would prefer a college with this.”
• Tie-Breaker: “This would be a great extra.”

4. Go Ahead and Search for Some Colleges

Once you’ve created your college priorities list, you can then begin searching for colleges that meet your top priorities. To get started, use CollegeData's College Search, review college websites, and talk with your parents, older siblings, teachers, counselors, and friends who are already in college. If you have already started your college list, identify the schools that best match your top priorities and continue searching for more candidates.

5. Let It Evolve

Here comes the most important part of the process! As you learn more about colleges and your preferences and needs, you may find yourself changing your priorities -- and taking some colleges off your list and adding others in their place. That's to be expected, and it is critical to finding the best college for you.

It’s not always easy to define what you’re looking for in a college. But taking the time to figure out your top priorities will help you build a college list you can feel confident about – and one filled with schools you’re genuinely excited to attend.