How do I prepare to go to a 4 year college or university as an adult?

[JohnW4637]

I graduated high school in 2000, and have since been working for a living. In that time I've been able to learn a lot about who I am, and where my talents and interests lie.I'm at the point now where I know what I want to do, and have a general educational plan that will help me accomplish my goals.The problem is it has been 8 years since I was in school, and after doing some self assessment tests online have discovered that I've lost a great deal of the knowledge I once had.I'm also at the disadvantage of having never taken the SAT or ACT when in high school. Finally to make issues even worse, I was a C average student at best to spite being capable of far more (I was totally ignorant of my future well being).I'm having difficulty figuring out how to go about preparing myself to be able to attend a 4 year college or university. I'm unsure of what to take in order to awaken this knowledge that has laid dormant for 8 years and update it to contemporary standards.So many great replies. It's a shame I can only pick one as "best". You were all very helpful, thank you.

[elims4ever]

You may want to start at a community college to at least take the compass tests (or other similar entrance tests). This way if you need to take remedial math or english you can take the classes before you transfer to a 4 year college (and it will be a hell of a lot cheaper). I would take at least to English 101 and basic math (it's usually after algebra). If you know what 4 year college you want to go to you can check with that college and make sure the classes will transfer. It's never too late to start college. Just know that all the students in the class will think you know all the answers (because of your age). Good luck.

[alwayswrite]

The best track for you to take is to go to a community college and then transfer to a 4 year university. Depending on the schools near where you live, some community colleges have a partnership with their local universities. If you choose to go that route the community college will ask you to take an assessment test (very similar to the SAT). This will help them and you figure out when you are. Also, this depends on what you plan on studying. You should look on line and see what are some of the things you need to know in order to prepare for your major. If you do a little bit of research about your major and what school you are trying to go to. Your agenda will begin to unfold it's self. Good Luck!

[quinlangal]

Hi.I graduated from high school in 1987 and this past year I started going to college. I never took the SAT or ACT either. I had to take the college placement test and that helped to determine what classes I needed to take to start with. Just go to the school of your choice and talk to a adviser there. They can help get you prepared for school. Going back to school is the best decision I have made.Good Luck to YOU

[Bill0196]

The same as people in high school - take some college classes at your local community college.ThanksBill

[TheoreticallyInsane]

check out www.fordham.edu. The university has a great training program for returning aduts (via night classes) also try CUNY schools. Be confident. It is better late than never. at leats you are determined to do something about it. Just go for it.Grades are not the best or most accurate indiactor for intelligence. Being a "C student" does not mean that you are incapable of success. Read success stories of these so called "failures". even Einstein failed classes in grade school. You can do it! Start reading on your own. asking for help. The more you use negative self talk the longer it will take for you to get motivated. This will be hard work, but you have taken the first step. All the best. You do not lose your knowledge. You just learn to accept what you can use and learn to value the lessons you have learned. Just remember stay positive. Start studying: now!

[BlueRainbow]

A lot of colleges have a department that caters to adult learners that offers a wealth of information. They give them step by step guidance in regards to admission requirements, career guidance, etc. Community colleges and smaller colleges seem to be able to offer more individual instruction. You could also check with your local high school's guidance department for information and learning materials. You will have to get your high school transcripts. The high school should be able to give you the ACT/SAT testing requirements and testing dates or you can look it up on the internet. Also, your local adult literacy office can help you with learning material as they have free classes for adults who want to get their GED as well as other adult classes such as computer classes, etc. If you don't make the ACT/SAT testing requirements, that doesn't mean that you can't go to college. It just means that you have to take remedial classes that don’t count for college credit, but you still have to pay the college fees. Also if you study up before going to college, you could ask the college about CLEP tests. These are tests that allow you to test out of classes if you pass them. Of course, there is a fee no matter if you pass or fail, but testing out would be cheaper then paying for the class and expenses. But a lot of people choose to take the class to prepare them for the next class levels. You can fill out the FAFSA form on the internet to apply for financial assistance if needed. Do this early if you apply. Book stores also have general learning material, and books on testing tips for the major exams. Good luck on your studies. I think that any choice to improve one's self is a smart choice. Adults should be life long learners, and not dormant minds. The only draw back is the financial expenses, but if you reach your goal hopefully that will pay off in the end. )