Questions to Ask About
Student Populations

Enrollment

How many students are enrolled?

Knowing how many students are enrolled in the program under consideration is an important question. It can demonstrate the amount of attention you will get from faculty, the potential class sizes, and the overall viability of the program and the institution.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Is the information about DEI easy to access?

Attention to DEI issues is rising and the response may vary from institution to institution. Finding ways to determine not only how the college or university “talks the talk,” but also “walks the walk,” is important. Look for DEI markers which can be found such as enrollment mix, faculty diversity, programming, affinity groups/spaces, and extra-curricular activities, and other strategic documents.

Questions to Ask

  • What services does the institution provide for adult learners?
  • How many students attend as transfer students?
  • If I am an online learner, how can I become part of and connect with the campus community?
  • What is the diversity of the student body of the college?
  • Does the institution offer any activities or services specifically for minority populations?
  • Are you interested in an institution designated as a Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) or Historically Black College or University (HBCU)?
  • How can I evaluate if the campus culture is the right fit for me?

Military and Veterans

Does the program or institution I am looking at qualify for the Department of Veterans Affairs G.I. Bill?

The U.S. Veterans Administration has two tools: one for choosing a college and one comparing G.I. Bill Benefits.

I just transitioned out of the military. Should I fill out a FAFSA Application?

Yes! Individuals transitioning out of the military, regardless of age (under 24), are considered independent students. This, combined with how much money you make each year, might qualify you for financial aid. It is also important to note that any VA disability payment is not considered as income when applying for FAFSA.

What is a Veteran student loan discharge?

For Veterans who are deemed by the Department of Veterans Affairs to be 100% Disabled Total and Permanent (T&P), you can apply for student loan discharge. A total and permanent disability (TPD) discharge relieves you from having to repay a William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan (Direct Loan) Program loan, a Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program loan, and/or a Federal Perkins Loan or to complete a TEACH Grant service obligation.

Sources and Information

Many institutions have special offices dedicated to serving veterans. How does your institution serve veterans and active-duty learners?

Explore the institution’s services in support of veteran’s and active-duty learners to be sure you can benefit from the full value of the resources on campus.

Does the institution have strong veterans support programs? Do they waive tuition for veterans?

Be sure to compare the support programs and tuition waiver information at the institutions in which you are considering enrolling. 

Is there a Student Veterans of America (SVA) Chapter, or other veteran centric organizations on campus?

Visit Student Veterans of America for a list of SVA chapters on college campuses.

Buyer Beware: Certain federal financial aid includes time limitations. Once that time is used up, those grants are no longer available. Be sure to be very clear on this issue.

Never sign any documents for any kind of aid unless you are fully confident you have been given proper information.

Be clear on the contract between the student and the institution. This can show up in a handbook, catalog, or other forms.

You are entering into a contract, and these are the things you need to consider. You do not have to decide in one day. Consider carefully – this is an opportunity to make an informed decision. The contract between the student and the institution is the catalog (institutional promise) and student handbook (student promise/contract). Do not give in to pressure to sign a financial commitment “today.” It is better to walk away than being obligated to debt for which you are unclear.

International Students

U.S. accredited institutions welcome thousands of international students to study each year. International students will receive the same quality education that domestic students receive at U.S. accredited institutions. If you are an international student, it is important that you understand and comply with all federal, state, and local regulations related to studying in the states. 

International students coming to the United States can find information from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which provides free government resources that explain the rules and regulations governing the nonimmigrant student process in the United States.

Before arriving in the States and thereafter, you will be required to connect with your college or university’s office of international student affairs. This is an important resource for you. Please contact your college or university directly to get connected. 

Sources and Information

Questions?

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