When it comes to certain things, like an MP3 player or a game system, the brand name might be important. Some students think of college the same way, but if you approach your college choice that way, you'll be missing out on some lesser-known, yet great colleges (more than 3,000 four-year and two-year schools) that might be a better match for you,

There’s certainly nothing wrong with attending a school that everyone knows about and talks about in a positive way—if it really is a good fit for you. As you investigate colleges, check out all the details and decide where to attend based on who you are, what you're interested in and where you think you want to go in life.

Once you look at the details of a college, you'll see there’s a lot more than the name to consider.

ACT suggests considering these factors when comparing colleges:

• Location — distance from your home.

• Environment — type of school (two-year or four-year); urban or rural; co-ed, male or female student body; religious affiliation; public or private school.

• Size — enrollment and campus size.

• Admission requirements — deadlines; tests required; average test scores, GPA and rank of the freshman class.

• Academics — majors offered; student-faculty ratio; typical class size; special requirements.

• Financial aid — deadlines; required forms; percentage of student population receiving aid; scholarships; part-time employment opportunities.

• College expenses — tuition, room and board; estimated total budget; application fee and deposits.

• Housing — residence hall requirements; availability; types and sizes; food plans.

• Facilities — academic and recreational.

• Activities — clubs, organizations; sororities/fraternities; athletics and intramurals.

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