Exploring College Opportunities for 18-Year-Old High School Graduates in America
A lot depends on your goals and where you come from. In the U.S., 18 is a normal age to complete senior high school and consider college. Starting college at 18 or even 19 is quite common. The U.S. has some of the best colleges in the world and many that are not as prestigious, so it's important to carefully choose which school suits your needs and financial situation.
Financial Considerations
College in the U.S. can be expensive, often around $10,000 a year. Tuition, housing, food, and books can all add up. Additionally, if you are a foreign student, tuitions can be even higher. However, the U.S. has some of the best universities in the world.
Admissions and Financial Aid
If you have not completed senior high school, you must consider the specific admissions requirements of the college. You should be familiar with the language of instruction; for example, in the U.S., many programs are taught in English.
Unlike some other countries, you cannot receive federal financial aid if you do not have a high school diploma or equivalent. Many people in such circumstances choose to obtain a GED (General Educational Development) by passing an exam that is equivalent to a high school diploma.
Paths for Non-Senior High School Graduates
Many 18-year-olds can enter college without having completed senior high school. However, there are specific conditions you need to meet, which vary by country. In Ghana, for instance, one must be 25 years old and prove it with a birth certificate obtained at least five years ago. You must also be able to read, speak, listen, and understand the language of instruction. In Ghana, this would be English, and it is tested through a series of weekend tuition courses and an exam in various subjects such as English essay comprehension, grammar and usage, general paper, quantitative methods, critical thinking, and current affairs.
Passing these courses with a minimum of 50 marks will qualify you for certain degree programs, such as Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Sociology, Adult Education, Human Resource Studies, Accounting, Political Science, Information Studies, Public Administration, and Human Resource Management.
In the U.S., there are similar entrance options for non-traditional students, and some universities offer mature entrance examinations.
Cost and Opportunities
The costs of attending a college in the U.S. can be high, but there are opportunities for students and especially for those who do not attend senior high school or equivalent. The fees for mature entrance examinations are typically higher than those for regular students, and lectures are often held on weekends to accommodate working students.
Conclusion
Whether you are in Ghana, the U.S., or any other country, the key is to research and understand the specific requirements and opportunities available for non-traditional students. The university pathway is not just for recent high school graduates; it is open to all who are motivated and prepared to succeed.
Further Reading and Resources
University of Ghana Ghana Institute of Journalism Mature Entrance Examinations in the U.S. Affordable Colleges in the U.S.For more information and additional resources, visit the respective university websites or related educational resources.