About this unit

There are nearly 3,000 colleges in the United States that offer 4-year degrees. The sheer variety of options, from rural liberal arts colleges to public state universities, can feel overwhelming. After you understand the differences between what's out there and begin to get a sense of what you want, however, the choice becomes infinitely more manageable! (Khan Academy).

Question 1

Watch the video below (“Overview: Exploring college options”).

Take notes so you will be able answer the following question:

• What steps can you take to make sure that a college is the best fit for you?

Question 2

Watch the video below (“Comparing vocational vs 2 year vs 4 year colleges”).

Take notes so you will be able answer the following question:

• What differences are there among the three types of colleges discussed in the video?

Local Two Year College / Community Colleges:

• Santa Monica College

• LA City College

• LA Valley College

• Pasadena City College

• El Camino College

• ...and more!

Question 3

Watch the video below (“Comparing public vs private colleges”).

Take notes so you will be able answer the following question:

• What differences are there between public and private colleges?

Question 4

Watch the video below (“Student story: Prioritizing financial aid, major, and location in the college search”).

Take notes so you will be able answer the following question:

• What factors did this student consider when applying to college?

Question 5

Watch the video below (“Comparing colleges based on financial aid policies”).

Take notes so you will be able answer the following question:

• Why is knowing a college's financial aid policy before applying so important?

Question 6

Watch the video below (“Student story: Prioritizing financial aid in the college search”).

Take notes so you will be able answer the following question:

• How did this student use the financial aid process to help him choose colleges?