Undeclared majors: Is it really that bad?

SocratesPost is always on the frontlines scouring the news for relevant updates in the college admissions landscape. We look for anything that can help shape our understanding of the latest trends in admissions and help our readers see the direction in which we’re moving.

Questions we explored this week:

  • Applications are now open for these "best value" colleges. Which ones?
  • Want a $4,500 of free tuition per year? All you have to do is this.
  • Is it really a bad idea to apply to college as an "undecided" major? This college weighs in.

October 10, 2021 — Cal State

California’s 23-campus state university system opened its Fall 2022 application. It’s the largest 4-year university system in the country, conferring over 123,000 degrees in 2021. Well-known campuses include San Diego State University, Cal Poly Pomona, and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, among others. Applications are due November 30 and cost $70 each.

What does this mean? It’s an easy application with no test scores, essays, or recommendations needed. Anyone looking for an affordable, quality education should apply.

Read more here.

September 28, 2021 — Join the Navy

The Navy’s Tuition Assistance program just upped its tuition reimbursement allocation from $3,750 to $4,500 per year and from 12 semester hours to 18 semester hours. Sailors must have completed at least 3 years of active duty before getting approval for tuition assistance, compared to two years previously.

What does this mean? For families stressed about the cost of college and who didn’t save enough, you can think strategically about how joining the military can offset those tuition costs and relieve their financial burden.

Read more here.

September 28, 2021 — No.

At University of Nevada, Reno, students are not discouraged from starting college as undeclared majors. About 10% of the incoming class every year comes in “exploratory” a.k.a. undeclared. UNR believes that undeclared students are not only more likely to graduate, but also more likely to graduate in 4 years. UNR offers advising for undeclared students to narrow down their interests.

What does this mean? If your student is stuck choosing a major, focus on applying to college first. Undeclared majors still have a home on many campuses.

Read more here.

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