How to Request Free Information From Community Colleges

Colleges have a wealth of free materials to give to perspective students.

In today's world, it has become nearly impossible to get your foot in the door of any career field without some college credentials. Luckily, many cities have a community college that is local or within driving distance. These colleges are always seeking new students, and are glad to provide you with most information you request for free. The first step to finding or advancing in the career of your dreams is earning a college degree, and community colleges make this possible.

Things You'll Need

• File folders

Instructions

1. Decided on a career path. Find out what credentials (licenses, certificates or degrees are required in this field. Most community colleges only offer degrees as high as Associate's, but generally that is enough to help you earn an entry-level position in your chosen field.

2. Create a list of all the local colleges within driving distance. Each college offers a different variety of educational programs; meaning they may or may not offer the program that you are seeking. Use college search websites, such as FastWeb.com to help you learn what your local colleges offer.

3. Browse the colleges' websites. These sites are designed to recruit new students and contain everything you need to know about their institution and the programs they offer. Search the site for links such as "admissions", "prospective students", or "applications". These links will lead you to pages with instructions on how to request free information. Most college sites offer an online information request form. These forms may ask you to submit your mailing information and phone number. Also, be prepared to identify the specific programs in which you are interested.

   Start a file folder for each college which interests you. On the outside of each folder, write the name of the college, the contact information and name of the Admissions Officer, plus any other information that will remind you about phone conversations or messages you may have left.

4. Contact the Admissions' office. Request to speak to an admissions' representative and explain to them the type of program that interests you. They will be able to help you determine if their institution offers a program suited to your needs. They may also take down any information needed to mail you a complete information package.

5. Visit the campus. Almost every college has brochures, pamphlets and other literature available to give you. Just check with the institution's admissions' office.

6. Keep all the materials you receive from colleges in file folders, one folder for each school. This will make it easier for you to compare programs and determine which is best for you.

Tips & Warnings

• Be mindful of admission deadlines and other important dates. The program you may be interested in may only be offered during certain times throughout the year and/or have a limited number of available seats.

• Pay attention to enrollment requirements. Often, every department within the college has its own requirements in addition to the college admission requirements that must be fulfilled before you can begin their program.

References

• FastWeb.com