The college search process often starts with questions like “What’s the best school?” or “Where can I get in?” But at College UnMazed, we encourage students and families to ask a better question: Which colleges fit who I am and what I need to succeed?

That’s where the 6 Keys of College Fit come in. These six areas help students create a personalized definition of college “fit” and evaluate potential schools with purpose, not pressure.

Free infographic and worksheet included!

While summer should be a time for rest and recharge, it’s also the perfect window for students to get ahead in the college prep process—without the stress of the school year. As counselors, our guidance can turn summer into a season of growth, exploration, and preparation.

Here are seven summer strategies counselors can recommend to students at every grade level and a great free download worksheet and infographic you can share with your students!

Find out you can assess a college based on the 6 Keys of College Fit.

Students can make more informed decisions about which college to attend when they understand each college they are considering from 6 key perspectives. We call these the 6 Keys of College Fit that include Academic Match, Career Match, Financial Match, Personal Match, Student Outcomes, and Student Support.