College: deciding whether to go

After the completion of high school (or equivalent), most people who are capable of going to college based on their intelligence and ability to work hard do, although financial considerations may sometimes constrain people's college choices. As a general rule, this seems like a sound decision. We recommend that unless you have strong reason to believe otherwise, you go to college, and use our college selection pages to help guide your choice of what college to go to.

See also alternatives to college.

Review of the typical benefits of going to college

• Human capital (you acquire valuable knowledge and skills).
• Signaling to potential employers and others that you have the relevant abilities or acquired the relevant knowledge.
• Consumption: The college experience is fun, fulfilling, and personally rewarding.
• Networking with students: You get to network with other students.

See also

• Applying to college as an older student
• Applying to college with weak academic credentials
• Alternatives to college