FAQ About Student's Guide to College and University Selection

How do I know if a college or university is academically rigorous?

There are a few ways to determine if a college or university is academically rigorous:

Graduation and Retention Rates: High graduation and retention rates can indicate that the institution provides a rigorous academic experience that prepares students for success.

Faculty Credentials and Research: Check the faculty credentials and research of the institution to see if they are respected in their field. Institutions with a strong faculty can offer students an academically rigorous education.

Admission Requirements: Institutions with high admission standards can indicate a commitment to academic excellence. Look at the average GPA and test scores of admitted students to get a sense of the institution's academic rigor.

Course Offerings and Requirements: Look at the institution's course offerings and requirements to see if they align with your academic interests and goals. Institutions with rigorous academic programs often have demanding course requirements and challenging coursework.

Accreditation: Accreditation is a process by which institutions are evaluated for quality and academic rigor. Look for institutions that are accredited by recognized accrediting bodies to ensure that they meet rigorous academic standards.