Day-by-day the cost of college education is frequently at the top of the list of issues that parent's must confront. But even today money should not be the only reason/criteria that you select a college. The ability of him/her to live within the philosophy of a college can make a big difference in their success. Most of colleges can put up an advertisement and send you a mailing every week but there is nothing like visiting a campus and talking to the faculty and senior students who have made a commitment to a particular college. The truth is there are over 10,000 colleges that a student can select from and all in India; very in size and mission.

There are 10 critical steps that will help you to select a college that meets your interest. These practices will help you to make a reasonable decision about the right college that you select. Here are the 10 steps:

1. Shortlist Colleges: Select as many numbers of colleges which meet you're constrains like your marks, accessible distance or with hostel facility and specialization on your interest. Take the time to compare the colleges you have selected and what they offer.

2. College Tour: You must personally visit colleges which you're choosing. When you go on a college tour always arrange a meeting with a faculty member, senior student and alumni's community. Take several friends with you and go on a campus tour together. Sometimes it is good to get more than one perspective on the college you are visiting.

3. Classroom Lecture: Have look on a classroom lecture to get a sense of the class sizes and culture.

4. Faculties: Check if their professors teach classes or mostly teaching assistants. It's playing vital in the quality of education. Another thing that you can do is pick up a few books that the faculty has written. These writings will reveal their opinions and thoughts. It is a great way to know if the faculty is keeping up with current trends.

5. Facilities: Check is they have sufficient infrastructure, library/lab facilities to accommodate your chosen specialization. Just have check of extra curricular activities if you're interested. Make sure the beauty of a campus is not the only thing to consider.

6. Counseling: Ask if advising is mandatory or voluntary. Advisors can be a critical part of a student's success.

7. Word of Mouth: Ask how many students from your high school have attended that college. It could be a sign that your former classmates really liked the college. You should find ways to creatively engage in conversations with their students and alumni. You want to know how happy they are about their college experience. It's even better when you can talk with students who are in a particular major. They can share their success and also talk about their challenges with their major.

8. Word on Net: Check out what students and parents are saying about the college and study environment on the different blogs and discussion forums. Some colleges also offer CD recordings of several aspects of the college. Some colleges even offer a virtual tour of their campus.

9. Financial Aid: Plan your financial arrangements for the complete years of study. Always talk to the financial aid office after you have received their financial aid package.

10. Admission: Be updated the admission procedures and important dates with you're chosen colleges. Most of colleges are putting out all kinds of information every day. You can go on to college websites/keep in touch with them.

And get ready to higher up your career in a right college and make you're decision that you won't regret.