Going to college can be one of the best decisions you can make for yourself. It is true that it will require some sacrifice. You will need to study for at least four more years. You will need to find money for tuition, or even relocate to another area. You may possibly have to turn down a job offer that’s too time consuming to allow you to study even part-time. But the rewards are great.
Studies show that those who have a university degree earn significantly more. Some companies will demand that their employees have completed their college education; others see it as a minimum requirement to be considered for promotion. There is also a significant difference in the amount of money that you can earn. Companies are wiling to pay for an educated, skilled workforce.

But if college is so important, why do people put it off? Some say that they can’t afford it. But they can, with the proper financial aid. There are institutions that provide scholarships and grants; there are work-study programs; there are places where you can get a student loan, which you only start paying once you graduate. And the cost of going to college is nothing compared to the money you lose out on when you don’t have a degree—because of the jobs you can’t apply to, or the promotions for which you are passed over.

Others say that they’re not interested in college. But they may not be aware of the different college courses, or the extra curricular activities, or the very interactive classroom set ups. Some colleges also have internship programs that let students earn units while working for a company.

Some think that they’re too old for college. They took a job after graduating from high school, and feel that they won’t fit in a classroom full of teenagers. But there are many people who do return to college after several years (sometimes several decades). Furthermore, they always have the option to enroll in a distance learning institution (or what is called online university).

So whatever reasons people have for not going to college…there’s always a way. They just have to make that choice.

1. What can I expect from the application form?

Application forms are very general and just help the school get an idea of your educational background. They will ask for a list of the subjects you took and your academic average. They will also review the extra curricular activities you participated in, the hobbies and interests you pursue in your free time, and the work you do in your community. You may also be asked to submit an essay which can describe aspects of your personality not seen in your transcript of records.

2. Who reviews my application?

All submitted documents are carefully studied by a review board. The will rank you according to your academic performance, how well you did on the entrance exams, and then look at your essays to help them weigh your case versus students with similar scores.

3. What happens if I’m not accepted?

It’s always a possibility. Even if you have a very good academic record, you may be competing against several other students for limited slots. That’s why it’s advisable that you apply to several schools. That way, even if you’re not accepted, you have a backup.

It is also possible to appeal to the college to review your application. You may be asked to submit additional proof of your abilities, or be placed on academic probation. Some schools may also consider re-accepting your application if they have new open slots. It is worth a try.

4. What’s the secret to a good essay?

The essay is not a creative novel. You don’t have to be a very good writer, you just have to give a clear idea of your personality and present whatever qualities or strengths that aren’t immediately seen in yourtranscript of records (i.e. your creativity or your commitment to serving your community).