Your son or daughter needs to start by looking at their intended major—or at least the general area of study that interests them. Not all colleges offer the same depth or quality in every field. One school might be strong in engineering, while another is better known for psychology or the arts. Explore the required courses, the available electives, and whether the curriculum includes hands-on experiences like labs, internships, co-ops, or study abroad. If your student is unsure about their major, research how easy it is to switch majors and whether the school offers exploratory programs to help undecided students.

Next, they should consider class size and teaching style. Some students learn best in small, discussion-based classes, while others may do just fine in large lecture halls. Encourage them to look into the student-to-faculty ratio and how many courses are taught by full-time professors versus teaching assistants. Your student will want a school where their learning needs are respected and supported.

Academic support services can also make or break your student’s college experience. Have them find out what tutoring, writing centers, study groups, or advising services are available. Colleges that invest in academic support tend to help students stay on track and succeed, especially during the challenging first year.

They also need to think about the learning culture of the school. Is it cutthroat or collaborative? Are students encouraged to work together or compete against each other? Visit the campus if you can, have them sit in on a class, talk to current students, and get a sense of whether they can see themself learning and growing in that environment.

Finally, have your son or daughter think beyond just getting into college—think about them getting out. What do outcomes look like for students in their program? What’s the graduation rate? Are students landing jobs, going to grad school, or completing meaningful internships while still in college? A strong academic fit should not only support their learning but also help launch them into the next chapter of their life.

Choosing a college with the right academic fit is about setting your son or daughter up for success—not just having them survive college. If you or your student need help evaluating college options, College and Beyond LLC is here to help. We help students and parents navigate their way through this important decision-making process with confidence and clarity.