7 answers
7 answers
Updated
Julio’s Answer
Hey Cameron!
You probably aren't doing as bad in school as you think, but we'll just assume that you are. One of the best options for going to college with average or below average grades are to apply to a community college (CC). CC's are great because they have a lower barrier of entry than most four-year universities, they are much cheaper to attend, and usually offer an array of majors to choose from!
CC's usually have very few requirements and as long as you have your high school diploma, you can apply and go through the application process through their portal. Another reason to attend community college is the cost to attend, I would say you make sure you apply for financial aid and scholarships as soon as possible, but even if you don't receive much in financial aid, classes and attendance is very low in terms of price. Lastly, CC's offer so many majors, trade programs, and niche majors that may peek your interest that you may have never found at a four-year university, so it can give you a chance to look at all the majors they offer so you can choose your four-year university in the future with a better idea of what you want your future career to be.
My advice to you is to apply to as many four-year universities that fit your educational, financial, and personal situation best and wait for a response from your schools. If you don't receive acceptance letters from the schools you applied to, you can then apply to your local CC since they usually have rolling admissions which mean you can apply as late as you want (I wouldn't recommend applying any later than the end of your senior spring semester of high school).
Good Luck!
You probably aren't doing as bad in school as you think, but we'll just assume that you are. One of the best options for going to college with average or below average grades are to apply to a community college (CC). CC's are great because they have a lower barrier of entry than most four-year universities, they are much cheaper to attend, and usually offer an array of majors to choose from!
CC's usually have very few requirements and as long as you have your high school diploma, you can apply and go through the application process through their portal. Another reason to attend community college is the cost to attend, I would say you make sure you apply for financial aid and scholarships as soon as possible, but even if you don't receive much in financial aid, classes and attendance is very low in terms of price. Lastly, CC's offer so many majors, trade programs, and niche majors that may peek your interest that you may have never found at a four-year university, so it can give you a chance to look at all the majors they offer so you can choose your four-year university in the future with a better idea of what you want your future career to be.
My advice to you is to apply to as many four-year universities that fit your educational, financial, and personal situation best and wait for a response from your schools. If you don't receive acceptance letters from the schools you applied to, you can then apply to your local CC since they usually have rolling admissions which mean you can apply as late as you want (I wouldn't recommend applying any later than the end of your senior spring semester of high school).
Good Luck!
Hi Julio: your advice is very insightful. Thanks for sharing!
Sheila Jordan
Updated
Brad’s Answer
I would recommend starting with a 2-year college. This will help you navigate the field of study that you find most interesting.
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
Look at rankings but maybe try a test optional school or a cc
Updated
dave’s Answer
Keep your college dream alive but there are MANY other Online and trade school options out there too!
Updated
Rob’s Answer
My recommendation is to try different things. Don't be afraid to explore the trades as well. Talk to your school counselor as there may be even trades classes you can take while still in high school!
Updated
Sanjana "Sonny"’s Answer
There are so many options! I would definitely consult a guidance counselor at school who might be able to speak more specifically to your situation, but in general, many people use community college as an option. If you do well for 2 years at a community college, you can then apply to a 4-year college if that is your goal. I know a lot of people who have gone to great schools this way!