You’ll also want to familiarize yourself with the different types of schools in the United States, so you can find the school that is best for you. Here’s a quick guide:

Vocational Training / Technical School -- prepares you for a career in a specific industry. Carpentry, cosmetology, electronic technician, and massage therapy are a few careers that begin with a vocational education. Although you do have to go through a formal training or education program, it differs from a four-year college education. Your classes focus on your occupation and you receive practical, hands-on training and skills. If you’re questioning whether a traditional college education is your thing, you might want to consider vocational training.

Community College (also known as Junior College, County College or City College) -- two-year post-secondary schools that provides academic, vocational and professional education. The highest certificate offered is usually an Associate's Degree (A.A.), with the most popular fields of study in the U.S. being nursing, business, administrative assistant, electrical/electronic technology, and liberal arts studies. These schools frequently provide programs that grant specific Certificates or Diplomas such as law enforcement, firefighting, massage therapy, computer repair, or welding. Community college students can continue their education at a university or four-year college, transferring some or all of the credits earned toward the degree requirements at the four-year school.

Public or Private University -- institutions that frequently emphasize academic research and provide both undergraduate and graduate-level courses. Undergraduates follow a four -year curriculum, and typically receive a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Sciences (B.S.) degree in an academic field. Enrollment, class size, and teacher-student ratios can vary widely depending on the University and the specific class. If you know that you want to get a four-year degree, and are either looking for a school that is strong in a certain area or are not sure what you want to study, a University might be a good choice for you. This type of institution will provide you with many choices once you get there.

Liberal Arts College -- four-year undergraduate schools emphasizing the liberal arts, as well as interactive instruction. These schools typically have smaller enrollment, class size, and teacher-student ratios than a University. The curriculum is designed to teach general knowledge and to help students develop intellectual capabilities. Liberal arts colleges generally offer a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and/or Bachelor of Sciences (B.S.) degree in an academic field. If you are looking for a small college, with a focus on academics and lots of personal attention from your professors, a liberal arts college may be the right place for you.