Applying to a college or university is easier when you already know what you are looking for. A few well-chosen questions can help you compare options, avoid surprises, and feel confident that a program fits your goals and your life.

Start with the program itself. Ask what you will actually study, how the curriculum is structured, and whether the program includes hands-on work such as labs, internships, clinical placements, or capstone projects. If you have a specific career direction in mind, it is also reasonable to ask how the program prepares students for that path and what support exists for career planning.

Next, clarify admissions requirements and timelines. Find out what materials are needed, how long the review process typically takes, and whether there are multiple start dates throughout the year. If you are transferring, ask how transfer credits are evaluated and which courses are most likely to be accepted. These details can change how quickly you can move forward.

Cost deserves its own set of questions. Ask for the total expected cost of the program, not just the tuition per term. Confirm what fees may apply, what typical book or technology expenses look like, and what financial aid options are commonly available. If loans are involved, it helps to ask for realistic guidance on what repayment could look like after you graduate.

Support and learning format matter as much as the program name. Ask what academic advising looks like, how tutoring or extra help is offered, and what resources exist for students balancing work or family responsibilities. If the program is online or hybrid, ask how classes are delivered, how participation works, and what kind of access you will have to instructors.

Finally, ask what happens after you apply and what your next steps would be if you are accepted. Understanding the deposit process, orientation, registration, and how quickly you need to make decisions helps you plan ahead. The goal is not to find a perfect school on paper, but to find a realistic option that you can complete successfully.