Choosing a college is a huge decision. Even after narrowing down the list to schools that specializes in your chosen major, there are many more factors to consider.

The key is to start thinking about this early on and be sure to discuss with trusted family members, school professionals, and other students. Pitfalls to avoid include:

Cost

The college you choose affects your life long after you graduate. That's why the cost of tuition and fees should be considered carefully as you narrow down your options.

Thanks to financial aid, most students pay far less than a school's sticker price. Check out this net price calculator to get estimates of the actual cost you'll face, including your Expected Family Contribution and your state-specific financial aid grants and scholarships.

You also want to look at the costs of living on campus and off. For example, if you're thinking about going away to college, make sure that you can afford the amount of out-of-state tuition you'll have to pay. Also using websites that write essays for free can be a good option if you want to save money for other expenses.

Some learners decide to apply only to colleges that fit their budget. This can help them avoid wasting application fees on schools they're unlikely to attend. This is a smart choice, but it's important to make sure you understand how each school's cost will impact your finances.

Academics

Academics are a big reason why people choose to attend college. If you're interested in a specific subject, it's important to find a school that offers the courses and majors you want. Large universities often have a variety of programs, from specialized degrees to research opportunities. Some even offer master's degrees so you can continue your studies after undergraduate school.

You should also consider whether the college you're considering is accredited. This is a requirement to receive federal financial aid, and it ensures that the college follows certain standards for student learning and teaching. If you're unsure what to look for, it may help to talk with a guidance counselor or other adult you trust about your goals and interests. Then you can start putting together your list of schools to consider. Don't limit yourself to Ivies and name brands, though -- many colleges with smaller enrollments outperform them in certain areas. For example, some colleges excel in science or visual arts, while others have weaker departments in those subjects.

Student Life

While academic programs, scholarships, and financial aid should be a major part of your college search, you can also get a good sense for the school by talking with current students. Ask them what they like about their college and if there are any aspects of the school that could use improvement. They also may share some of their course work examples or valuable insights about the study processes.

Location is also an important factor in determining the best college for you. Some students like to escape from home, while others prefer to be close by. You should also consider how far away you want to travel to school and what kind of out-of-state tuition that will cost you.

Choosing the right college can be daunting, especially if you’ve had your heart set on attending one school since kindergarten. However, it’s important to take the time to research all of your options before making a decision. By taking a holistic approach and focusing on your goals, needs and priorities, you can find the perfect college for you.

Location

As you start your college search, identifying what your needs and priorities are will help narrow your list of potential schools. It can also be helpful to keep an open mind as you explore your options.

For example, you may want to stay close to home and qualify for in-state tuition, or maybe you prefer a certain type of student lifestyle (i.e., a large university or a small, private college). Or you might be interested in studying abroad for part of your degree program.

If you’re visiting colleges, ask current students what they like about their school, and consider the location of each campus. The college you choose will shape your entire experience, so it’s important to make sure it will meet your academic and social needs. It’s also a good idea to check out each school’s student retention rate, which is an indicator of how happy students are with their decision to attend.