There is no “best” college or program for students. Rather, there are colleges and programs that are a best fit for students based on their needs, interests, and goals. The iMentor program uses several factors during the post-secondary process to help students find the college or post-secondary program that is right for them. These fourFit Factors are: (1) academic fit, (2) student support, (3) size, location and environment, and (4) financial fit.
One sentence definitions for each of the five Fit Factors are below and you can click here for a paper copy:
Academic Fit
Student Support Fit
How suitable a post-secondary institution is based on its offered services and programs as well as the student's needs for assistance and comfort.
- Supports can be:
- Academic-based such as tutoring or academic accommodations
- Transition-based such as summer-bridge or mentorship programs
- Identity-based such as clubs or student unions
Size, Location and Environment Fit
How suitable a post-secondary institution is based on its student enrollment totals, its physical setting, and its campus atmosphere as well as the student's preferences about where they live or commute to for school.
- Many schools are labeled:
- Small, medium, or large based on student enrollment
- Rural, suburban, or urban based on the setting
Financial Fit
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In addition to fit factors, students should consider match when choosing the best colleges to apply to for them:
Safety, Target, Reach
How suitable a post-secondary institution is based on its eligibility requirements and the student's qualifications, often in terms of GPA and test scores.
