Welcome

If you are considering private or out of state college entrance, you will need to check on requirements for each college to which YOU wish to apply.  Do this as early as possible in your high school year. College entrance requirements may change from year to year.

Click here to view general 4-year college prerequisite requirements for Idaho State public colleges and universities.

To be eligible for admission in Idaho state public 4-year colleges and universities, students must complete the college-preparatory courses listed at the above website before enrolling.  Students are encouraged to pursue additional course work beyond these minimums, particularly in math, science and world language.

GENERAL INFORMATION:
  • You can apply online for most colleges, directly through the college/university websites. Four-year colleges and universities begin to process applications as early as November 1 of your senior year.
  • If a transcript is required with your application, you can request a transcript from the Counseling Office.
  • If your application requires a school report or letter of recommendation, ask the person who you want to write it (teacher, counselor, administrator, or possibly an employer or community member) several weeks before the application deadline.
  • Special programs (honors, health careers, for example) with selective/limited enrollment may have specific deadlines and procedures.
  • It is your responsibility to be aware of and meet any special enrollment requirements.
EARLY ADMISSION INFORMATION:
  • In some instances where you have a desire to attend a particular college, an advantage may be gained by applying early. A small group of schools offer this opportunity, especially to those who are highly qualified. A question to ask yourself is: Do I look as good on paper now, as I will in January?
  • Early Action is a program for those of you who choose to send in an early application to one college. If admitted, you are under no obligation to matriculate and may apply to other colleges under their regular admissions. If you are deferred, you may be reconsidered later for admission. If accepted, you often do not have to reply or accept until the spring.
  • Early Decision involves the same procedures as early action, but you are honor-bound to attend the institution if accepted.
COLLEGE COSTS:

Regardless of where you enroll, your expenses include both direct educational expenses and living expenses and usually consist of four parts:

  • tuition and fees
  • books and supplies
  • room and board
  • personal expenses

Many students have additional expenses not covered under any of these categories, such as costs arising from medical care or a disability.  Be sure to include these extra expenses in estimating the costs of attending the particular college you are considering. Also check on existing medical insurance coverage provided by your parents or guardians.  Room and board expenses change from year to year, but vary according to the residence hall, choice of single or double rooms, or off-campus living if available.

The best way to select a campus is to see it for yourself.  One visit may tell you more than all other sources combined.

HELPFUL HINTS:

Visit during the week, if possible.

All colleges welcome visitors. With prior phone arrangements, it is possible to:

  • Have a guided tour of the campus.
  • Indicate the people with whom you would like to talk (major department, admission, financial aid, etc.)
  • Sit in classes you request.
  • Be invited to spend the weekend on some campuses.
  • Use free time to walk around campus or talk to students.
  • Stay overnight in a dormitory.
  • Contact a student from our local area who is enrolled at the college.

Read the college catalog of each campus you are considering (contact the Counseling Center or Career Center for the college address or catalog). This will give you the background to help you ask more specific questions on your tour since you will have had a basic introduction to: academic requirements, course descriptions, rules and regulations, faculty credentials, admissions policies, expenses, and financial aid.

During your visit evaluate:

  • atmosphere of the campus
  • library and research facilities
  • facilities in your major department (if decided)
  • major department requirements
  • student union and dormitories
  • opportunities for extra-curricular activities

Ask questions like:

  • Does the college have an active Career Center to help me prepare for a successful job search after graduation?
  • What percentage of graduates in your major finds employment within their area?
  • What percentage of graduates is accepted to graduate medical, or law school?
  • What help is available if I have difficulty with English, Math, or another subject?
  • Will I have ready access to computers and other equipment on campus?
  • What is the typical class size, and how much individual attention will I receive?
  • What intramural or intercollegiate sports are available?
  • What percentage of the students engages in athletics?
  • What is the atmosphere on campus (friendly, relaxed, competitive, pressured)?
  • What is the faculty like (caring, friendly, aloof, rigid)?
  • Do professors or graduate students teach freshman courses?
  • What percentage of students returns to the school for their sophomore year?

Selecting a college may be one of the first major decisions, which you have to make. It is important for you to make an informed decision.  You will also find, however, that your ultimate choice will be partially emotional, based on a feeling about where you will best fit in and be most happy. Even among colleges, which are similar in style, quality, and academic offerings; each is unique in atmosphere, student makeup, and general feel.  In the final analysis, one college will most likely feel right to you. Go with your instincts!