Who should go to college?

Anyone can go to college. If you are interested in going on to a college be sure to take the right high school classes now. Even if you're not sure whether you want to continue your education, you are better off taking the required classes so you have more options when you graduate. The skills and knowledge you will learn in challenging college prep classes are tools you can always use.

If I take the required courses in high school, am I guaranteed admission to college?

No. These requirements only focus on the courses you should take in preparation for college. How well you do in these courses and the standardized college entrance tests (ACT or SAT), as well as other factors such as class rank, rigor of high school curriculum, trends in grades, extracurricular activities, leadership qualities, letters of recommendation, and a written essay will help determine whether you are admissible.

What if my GPA drops because I am taking more difficult classes?

Mesa State considers the type of classes you take in relation to your grade point average. While it is desirable to have as high a GPA as possible, it is equally important to take as many challenging classes as are available. Honors courses and advanced placement courses are especially important in the admissions decision and the awarding of scholarships.

I am pretty good in sports, what requirements must athletes meet?

All student athletes must register with the NCAA clearinghouse. This is normally done during the first part of the senior year. Students have to register in order to be eligible to play intercollegiate sports at any division 1 of 11 school. If you are planning to play sports in college, it is very important that you maintain good grades as the NCAA looks at a group of core classes when determining eligibility. Be sure to check with you coach regarding details on how to register. You can also visit their website at www.ncaa.org.

What if I can't afford college but would like to attend?

Most if not all colleges offer financial aid. To qualify for financial aid you don't need to have top grades. Other programs such as loans and workstudy also are available. Before you dismiss the idea of going to college you should explore these opportunities. For more information on what you would qualify for, check out our financial aid site or talk to your high school counselor.