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I'm not sure the classes I took (or am taking) in high school prepared me for college.
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Different high school classes prepare you for work or for different fields of study in college. Also, colleges recommend you take certain high school classes like English Composition or Algebra in preparation for college. If you are still in high school, talk to your counselor about college and career interests. Ask for help selecting the classes that will help you achieve your goals. If you've graduated from high school, ask a college advisor to review your high school transcript and recommend appropriate college classes to get started.
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I haven't graduated from high school yet. Can I take college classes now?
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You have several options. Many high schools offer college credit courses for concurrent enrollment, where you earn both college and high school credit. You can take Advanced Placement classes in high school or take a CLEP your test senior year or once you've entered college; both may earn you credit for introductory college classes. There are early college admissions programs that allow you to start college while still in high school. Talk to your high school counselor about concurrent enrollment, AP classes, or CLEP tests. Check out the Campus Tours section to get course credit information for the college or university you're interested in attending.
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I never graduated from high school. Can I be admitted?
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Yes. Each college has different admission standards. Some require a high school diploma or GED; others have an open admission policy. Visit the Campus Tours section to get specific admissions information for the college you are interested in attending.
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I did all my schooling at home. What should I do about admissions?
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As a home schooler, you will be treated like any other student. You will need to meet admission standards, which differ at each college. And, you may need to take a test such as the GED. Each college has different admission standards. Visit the Campus Tours section to get specific admissions information for the college you are interested in attending.
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I haven't decided on a major yet.
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You can start your college experience with general education classes that are required for every degree, regardless of major. General education provides students with the opportunity to explore new subjects and improve communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. This exploration may help you decide on a major and on future career goals. You can also speak with an academic advisor about your options. In addition you can explore your interests relative to careers within the Explore Careers section.
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I don't want a degree, just a few classes.
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Take one class. Complete a certificate or an apprenticeship. Some students go to college to "brush up" on certain skills. Others need training in a specific topic to keep current on the job. Still others go to college to gather knowledge to help them transition from one career to another. Some students just love to learn. Whether you want one class or a full degree, Utah's colleges are here for you.
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English is my second language. Whom can I talk to about improving my English skills?
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Utah's colleges offer programs that teach both written and spoken English. Ask on your campus about English Language programs. Explore the Campus Tours section for information relating to English as a second language programs.
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I'm a parent with small children. How can I find out about childcare opportunities near my campus?
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Some colleges have childcare options on campus. Others have coordinating offices where you can find lists of providers near the campus. Visit Campus Tours for campus childcare coordinating offices. If you cannot find this information, call or email the campus for details. The Utah State Office of Child Care provides statewide contacts.
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I require accommodation for a disability if I'm going to attend college. Whom do I contact?
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Campus disability services ensure you have access to college programs, services, and activities. They provide reasonable accommodation based on documented limitations. Disclosure of a disability is handled in confidence. Services range from providing interpreters and note-takers, to textbooks on tape, to exam accommodations and adaptive technology. Campus' policies on accessing these services vary. Visit the Campus Tours section to get specific information for the college you are interested in attending. Another resource for information is the Utah State Office of Rehabilitation.
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I've been out of school longer than I care to admit. Am I too old?
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You are never too old to learn. Nationally, in higher education, enrollments of students 30 or older have grown 63% between 1980 and 2000; this group now represents 30% of the total student population. The percentage of women over 35 who are enrolling in college part-time has risen 137% in the same time period. And national statistics indicate returning adult students are as successful academically as 19- to 23-year-old students. There are many campus resources available to help you complete your first steps back to school. Start with academic advising. Ask for a nontraditional student advisor.
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I think my veteran's benefits should help pay for school. Whom should I talk to?
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Check the Campus Veterans Office List within UtahMentor for the name, location and phone number of the campus certifying official.
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I work part- or full-time. Are there programs that will accommodate my schedule?
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Yes. Online classes and classes televised on KULC or over the EDNET system -- may be a solution for students needing flexible delivery. Check colleges' online class schedules for evening school and distance delivered classes. Also ask an academic advisor about evening and weekend classes and executive programs. See the Utah Electronic College for information on distance education classes across the state.
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I'm afraid college is too expensive. Are there ways to get financial help?
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Yes. Every year millions of students receive financial help. You, too, may qualify. And you don't have to be a great athlete, a leader in student government, or a straight-A student. There are federal and state aid programs. Visit UtahMentor's Pay for College section for financial aid explanations and even calculate/estimate your financial aid eligibility. Also, each institution has its own financial assistance for which you may be eligible.
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