How to Compare Undergraduate Rankings

Finding the right college and undergraduate program is important. Companies have taken the cue and developed ranking systems to help you decide what school is best for you. Use these easy steps to understand and compare undergraduate rankings.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Gather information from the top colleges you are considering. Include program specifics, costs, activities or other important areas.
2. Make a grid on a piece of paper and label all sides accordingly. This will make the comparison easier.
3. Research ranking sites to find the right on for you. USNews.com is unbiased and informative.
4. Collect the desired information on each college from the ranking site. Input the data into your grid. Continue this until all the schools that interest you are filled in with ranking data.
5. Look at the information that you have and compare the different areas. If you have a question, contact the school to clarify.

Tips & Warnings

• Use more than one ranking site or company to diversify information. Like a medical procedure, looking for college rankings is best if you ask for a second opinion.
• Get as specific as you can in the ranking process. Look at your specific program or desired field of study rather than just on the college and overall studies.
• Some ranking methods are controversial. Do not make your decision on a school based entirely on ranking information.
• Rankings may also be regional. Understand what area you are looking into before settling on the ranking information.