Attending a College Fair

If you're a young adult who's ready to graduate from high school, you may be thinking about going to college. If you're not sure where you'd like to apply, a college fair may help you set goals and make decisions.

Similar to a career fair, a college fair offers you the opportunity to learn about many different colleges and universities and ask questions about campus life, academics and accessibility. Admissions representatives are there to talk with you one-on-one, answer your questions, and offer you an idea of what you can expect from the college where they work.

Today, we're sharing some advice on how to make the most of a college fair. 

Where to find college fairs

College fairs are held throughout the year, but many take place in the spring and fall. To find and attend one near you, check out:

• National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): In addition to offering tips and guidance for preparing for college applications and how to select a college, the NACAC also holds free college fairs throughout the U.S. Many of their spring events are taking place throughout March and April.
• Colleges That Change Lives: This organization encourages a student-centered college search process and offers advice on how to find the school that's right for you. Their college fairs and information sessions are free and offer you the opportunity to talk with representatives from 40 different colleges.
• Your high school: Check in with your guidance counselor or a teacher at your school. They may know about local events that would help you learn about schools that you may be interested in.

Tips for attending college fairs

There are a few ways to make the most of your time at a college fair:

Be selective: You don't have to visit every school's booth. Research which schools will be at the fair, and pinpoint a few that you want to learn more about or you have a particular interest in attending. You'll feel more engaged and excited if you focus your attention on schools that spark your interest.

Think about your interests and activities: Many college representatives will want to learn more about you, including what you want to study or clubs you'd like to join. Knowing your interests helps college representatives share what makes their schools a good choice for you.

Prepare questions: This is your chance to learn more about different schools, including campus accessibility and programs. Some questions you may consider:

• What do students like most about the college?
• Do all buildings on campus have ramps and elevators?
• Are there accessible student residence halls and apartments?
• Where can I find information about student disability resources and requesting accommodations?
• Are tutoring and other academic assistance programs, like writing centers, available for all students?

Transitioning to college or work

As you leave high school and enter adulthood, a Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) project may help you consider your options for attending college or starting work. WIPA projects serve several populations, including young adults ages 14 through 25.

If you're considering working after high school and you receive Social Security disability benefits, Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) program may be able to help. The Ticket program offers free career development supports to people ages 18 through 64 who receive SSI or SSDI benefits.

Through the Ticket program, you can work with a service provider who can help you set work goals, identify support services and achieve your goals.

To find your local WIPA project and other Ticket program service providers, you can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. A representative can help you learn more about the Ticket program and send you a list of service providers. Or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.