Once you identified your priorities, you can narrow your list of possible colleges. When you've got it down to six or seven, the serious shopping begins. Start with a college visit.

Visiting the campus is the best way to learn about a school. It gives you the opportunity to see the professors and students in action, use and explore the facilities, and get a feel for what college life would be like at that school. While campus visits aren't necessary, they are highly recommended, and most colleges have organized visit programs.

While you visit a campus, you should:

• Pay attention to equipment and school facilities.
• Sit in on a class or two.
• Talk with current students in the program.
• Talk with instructors in the program.
• Talk with an admissions counselor.
• Talk with a financial aid counselor.

Don't be afraid to wander around on your own to get a feel for the school and the people. Also, check if the school has an extended campus visit program where prospective students stay overnight in the dormitory.