26 answers
Lyons
Student
Oakwood, Ohio
1
Question
Asked
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How much harder is college/university than high school?
I just want to know the difficulty gap between the two things. I've heard a lot from family and friends about how much easier high school was for them and I feel a bit nervous.
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26 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
780
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I agree with the other answers, because college is a lot more challenging.
It is definitely more challenging because unlike high school, no one is making you be there, or is guiding you towards a high school diploma.
College is initially more of an individual endeavor, because you are there by your own choice. This means engaging in a lot of Campus Navigation and being proactive regarding your college education.
This means that you need a lot more individual responsibility, which means you will be responsible for contacting the advisors, setting up your course schedule, finding your classes and attending every day. If you miss classes in high school, eventually someone will contact your family and attempt to find where you are. In college, the professors will not come and find you, and if you miss too many courses they will fail you.
You will need to value persistence, and keep attending courses, talking to your advisors and taking personal responsibility for you own education, and your future career that will come out of it.
It is definitely more challenging because unlike high school, no one is making you be there, or is guiding you towards a high school diploma.
College is initially more of an individual endeavor, because you are there by your own choice. This means engaging in a lot of Campus Navigation and being proactive regarding your college education.
This means that you need a lot more individual responsibility, which means you will be responsible for contacting the advisors, setting up your course schedule, finding your classes and attending every day. If you miss classes in high school, eventually someone will contact your family and attempt to find where you are. In college, the professors will not come and find you, and if you miss too many courses they will fail you.
You will need to value persistence, and keep attending courses, talking to your advisors and taking personal responsibility for you own education, and your future career that will come out of it.
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1851
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Lyons in high school, students often have a structured schedule and are guided by counselors and teachers. In college, students have more freedom to choose their own courses and set their own schedules. In college, students are expected to take more responsibility for their learning, including managing their time, seeking help when needed, and taking initiative in their studies.
📚 CLASSES
Obviously, your classes are going to be different in college than they were in high school. The typical high school student is in six classes a day with only lunch as a break. The typical college student takes 15 credit hours, which usually evens out to five classes. These can happen all in a row with no breaks, spread out throughout each day, or only on certain days of the week. It’s important to look at all of the classes offered and know how many credits you’ll need each semester for your major or minor. After you choose a major or decide you need a little more time to explore your options, the courses you take will be tailored to your degree path. While there are some credits that everyone takes no matter what major they choose, what you learn in college starts with declaring your major. From there your courses will be things you're interested in. That doesn't mean you won't be doing hard work, but it does mean you're more likely to be passionate about what you're learning.
⏰ TIME MANAGEMENT
It’s nice to have four classes instead of six, but don’t let it trick you. They say that for every one credit hour, you need to dedicate two hours to studying. The expectation is that if you have twelve credit hours, you should spend 24 hours studying. Any extracurriculars on top of your course load make it that much harder. Trying to balance a social life, education, and job can be taxing, especially when you don’t have someone there, like a parent, to help you plan out your week. It is now up to you to make time for studying. You may find it useful to write your schedule and upcoming assignments in a college planner. Finding time management techniques that work for you will help you stay focused. Adjusting to the independence of college life can be challenging, especially in the beginning. However, the freedom to make your own choices, and the satisfaction that comes from succeeding on your own, far outweighs any negative aspects.
📓 COURSE LOAD
College courses are more challenging than high school courses, but with hard work, focus, and preparation students can be as, if not more, successful than they were in high school. In college, students are assigned substantial amounts of reading and writing, which may not be directly addressed in class. Don’t expect your college professors to remind you what reading needs to be done or when assignments are due. Instead, use the course syllabus given to you at the start of the course to create a calendar for yourself including the assignment due date and how it will be graded. Lastly, exams can be long, writing assignments are frequent, and there are more debates and discussions, so it’s essential for students to stay on top of their course load.
🎯 GRADING
Grading is one of the most significant and eye-opening differences between high school and college. Students in high school can get good grades by comprehending what they were taught and solving problems precisely as they were taught. Plus, daily assignments and extra credit opportunities are more frequent in high school, which benefits those students with lower test scores. Conversely, college students are graded on their ability to apply what they learn to new situations and problems. Daily assignments and extra credit opportunities are rare, as grades are determined by tests and papers. There are also fewer opportunities for grades overall, with some courses only having two or three tests in a semester. So watch out for your first tests. These are usually “wake-up calls” to let you know what is expected, but they may also account for a substantial part of your course grade.
CONCLUSION
Lyons many freshmen report that the independence they face as college students takes at least a few months, if not the entire school year, to get used to. But once they get past this initial adjustment, most students find their niche and embrace their newfound independence.
Hope this will be helpful Lyons
📚 CLASSES
Obviously, your classes are going to be different in college than they were in high school. The typical high school student is in six classes a day with only lunch as a break. The typical college student takes 15 credit hours, which usually evens out to five classes. These can happen all in a row with no breaks, spread out throughout each day, or only on certain days of the week. It’s important to look at all of the classes offered and know how many credits you’ll need each semester for your major or minor. After you choose a major or decide you need a little more time to explore your options, the courses you take will be tailored to your degree path. While there are some credits that everyone takes no matter what major they choose, what you learn in college starts with declaring your major. From there your courses will be things you're interested in. That doesn't mean you won't be doing hard work, but it does mean you're more likely to be passionate about what you're learning.
⏰ TIME MANAGEMENT
It’s nice to have four classes instead of six, but don’t let it trick you. They say that for every one credit hour, you need to dedicate two hours to studying. The expectation is that if you have twelve credit hours, you should spend 24 hours studying. Any extracurriculars on top of your course load make it that much harder. Trying to balance a social life, education, and job can be taxing, especially when you don’t have someone there, like a parent, to help you plan out your week. It is now up to you to make time for studying. You may find it useful to write your schedule and upcoming assignments in a college planner. Finding time management techniques that work for you will help you stay focused. Adjusting to the independence of college life can be challenging, especially in the beginning. However, the freedom to make your own choices, and the satisfaction that comes from succeeding on your own, far outweighs any negative aspects.
📓 COURSE LOAD
College courses are more challenging than high school courses, but with hard work, focus, and preparation students can be as, if not more, successful than they were in high school. In college, students are assigned substantial amounts of reading and writing, which may not be directly addressed in class. Don’t expect your college professors to remind you what reading needs to be done or when assignments are due. Instead, use the course syllabus given to you at the start of the course to create a calendar for yourself including the assignment due date and how it will be graded. Lastly, exams can be long, writing assignments are frequent, and there are more debates and discussions, so it’s essential for students to stay on top of their course load.
🎯 GRADING
Grading is one of the most significant and eye-opening differences between high school and college. Students in high school can get good grades by comprehending what they were taught and solving problems precisely as they were taught. Plus, daily assignments and extra credit opportunities are more frequent in high school, which benefits those students with lower test scores. Conversely, college students are graded on their ability to apply what they learn to new situations and problems. Daily assignments and extra credit opportunities are rare, as grades are determined by tests and papers. There are also fewer opportunities for grades overall, with some courses only having two or three tests in a semester. So watch out for your first tests. These are usually “wake-up calls” to let you know what is expected, but they may also account for a substantial part of your course grade.
CONCLUSION
Lyons many freshmen report that the independence they face as college students takes at least a few months, if not the entire school year, to get used to. But once they get past this initial adjustment, most students find their niche and embrace their newfound independence.
Hope this will be helpful Lyons
Kanari Haywood
Project Manager
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kanari’s Answer
Hi Lyons!
Congratulations on your decision to take the step into higher learning!
In my opinion, college isn't easier or harder; it's just different. You will have more freedom to make choices for your curriculum based on the path you want to take. That includes scheduling your time for studies, extra-curricular activities, as well as nurturing your friend circle. Remember to carve out time to play and relax. Balance is key!
Also, make sure to keep your home and old friend support system intact with lines of communication open all of the time. Lean on them when needed. These are the people who know you best, want the best for you and will keep you grounded.
I wish you the best future in college and beyond!
Congratulations on your decision to take the step into higher learning!
In my opinion, college isn't easier or harder; it's just different. You will have more freedom to make choices for your curriculum based on the path you want to take. That includes scheduling your time for studies, extra-curricular activities, as well as nurturing your friend circle. Remember to carve out time to play and relax. Balance is key!
Also, make sure to keep your home and old friend support system intact with lines of communication open all of the time. Lean on them when needed. These are the people who know you best, want the best for you and will keep you grounded.
I wish you the best future in college and beyond!
Calvin Johnson
Telcom
1
Answer
Lynchburg, Virginia
Updated
Calvin’s Answer
College is a great time to discover new things. Try to approach each class with an open mind, ready to learn and grow. You never know where life will take you or what job you might end up doing.
Joyce Jackson
Telecommunications / Engineering
3
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Joyce’s Answer
when you start college you are more than likely to start with the basics. To me the basics are just like continuing high school learning. It's like taking a step up as if it was grade 13. College will get a little challenging as you move up the ladder. Trying to stay ahead on you studies as much as possible. That way if something comes up or say you get sick and not feeling well and have to miss school then you won't fall behind. Always ask questions when you don't understand.
Zackary Peebler
Outside plant engineer
3
Answers
Spokane, Washington
Updated
Zackary’s Answer
Well I actually never went to High School as I was home schooled. I do some of the things High school teaches and I will say it really depends on what your are going to the university for. If you are looking to work in the engineering field for instance, it will be exponentially more difficult than high school. The math you learn in high school is just the tip of the iceberg and you will need to dedicate yourself to studying everyday for several hours even if you are good at math. It is really rewarding though and sometimes I miss those long days at the library with my fellow mathletes. If you want to get somewhere in this world math is the key! Hope this helps!
Tracey Sabala
Sr. Financial Analyst
3
Answers
West Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Tracey’s Answer
Having completed both my undergrad and my masters. It is all about balancing life. Science and Math courses require you but in time on work guides. Basically, take the sample tests. You can reach out to your professor or schedule a meeting with a TA - Teacher's Assistant. Organize your time well and be sure to take time for yourself so you don't get burnt out. If you have the opportunity to take AP courses, do it. Even if you don't score the 4 you do get an understanding of what a college course entails. Good luck and enjoy the journey!
Kevin Barnett, MSEM, MBA, MSIS
Engineering Manager
8
Answers
Chesapeake, Virginia
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
College or university can be a lot tougher than high school for a few reasons:
Harder classes: College classes usually go deeper into subjects and move faster than high school ones.
More independence: In college, you need to handle your own schedule, study on your own, and remember deadlines without being reminded all the time.
Thinking skills: College classes often push you to think more deeply, analyze info, and solve problems better than in high school.
More work: There are usually more assignments, reading, and tests in college, which means you’ll spend more time and effort on your studies.
Harder classes: College classes usually go deeper into subjects and move faster than high school ones.
More independence: In college, you need to handle your own schedule, study on your own, and remember deadlines without being reminded all the time.
Thinking skills: College classes often push you to think more deeply, analyze info, and solve problems better than in high school.
More work: There are usually more assignments, reading, and tests in college, which means you’ll spend more time and effort on your studies.
Kerwin Masten
Transport Engineer
1
Answer
Westfield, Indiana
Updated
Kerwin’s Answer
Hi Lyons,
That's a great question! As many have already mentioned, success often hinges on effective time management, a strong support system, and pursuing an education that leads to a fulfilling and well-paying career.
Adjusting to college can be easy for some, while others may need assistance from peers, counselors, or family to navigate the challenges. Personally, I was initially worried about the changes, but I found the transition much smoother than expected.
The fact that you're already thinking ahead and asking these questions is a significant step in the right direction. Congratulations on your acceptance into higher education! I'm confident you'll achieve anything you set your mind to.
Cheers!
Kerwin
That's a great question! As many have already mentioned, success often hinges on effective time management, a strong support system, and pursuing an education that leads to a fulfilling and well-paying career.
Adjusting to college can be easy for some, while others may need assistance from peers, counselors, or family to navigate the challenges. Personally, I was initially worried about the changes, but I found the transition much smoother than expected.
The fact that you're already thinking ahead and asking these questions is a significant step in the right direction. Congratulations on your acceptance into higher education! I'm confident you'll achieve anything you set your mind to.
Cheers!
Kerwin
Deborah Prescott
Budget Coordiantor
2
Answers
Post Falls, Idaho
Updated
Deborah’s Answer
Choosing classes that match your personal interests and creating a schedule that fits your life is definitely a step up from high school. Plus, hybrid classes offer even more flexibility, making it easier to balance everything.
Mike Leone
Engineer
2
Answers
Berlin, New Jersey
Updated
Mike’s Answer
In college, you have more freedom but also more responsibility. That could be a blessing or a curse depending on your personality.
In high school, your schedule is set for you. In college, you are responsible for your setting your own schedule and finding ways to balance it. Less structure can be a good thing if you are disciplined. If you are not disciplined, you must learn to be. But learning how to manage your time will pay off in life, both professionally and personally.
In high school, your teachers are responsible for teaching you the subject matters you study. In college, you almost have to learn to teach yourself and be prepared to discuss what you've learned with your professors and peers. Again, you must learn to be disciplined and engaged. But these skills will directly translate when you reach the professional world.
Those who go to college because it's what they were told to do and not because they are pursuing something specific often struggle. If you have a purpose or a goal, you will do just fine, and you will benefit in ways beyond career ambitions.
In high school, your schedule is set for you. In college, you are responsible for your setting your own schedule and finding ways to balance it. Less structure can be a good thing if you are disciplined. If you are not disciplined, you must learn to be. But learning how to manage your time will pay off in life, both professionally and personally.
In high school, your teachers are responsible for teaching you the subject matters you study. In college, you almost have to learn to teach yourself and be prepared to discuss what you've learned with your professors and peers. Again, you must learn to be disciplined and engaged. But these skills will directly translate when you reach the professional world.
Those who go to college because it's what they were told to do and not because they are pursuing something specific often struggle. If you have a purpose or a goal, you will do just fine, and you will benefit in ways beyond career ambitions.
Bryan Braymen
Engineer
3
Answers
Driftwood, Texas
Updated
Bryan’s Answer
Great question! It will definitely depend on the high school and the college. However, if you have built great organizational skills and a great work ethic, the transition should not be as drastic as you may think. I would say generally, as far as the material, you will find it simply as the next step just like any year jump in high school. What can be drastically different is the fact that you won't have parents/guardians and teachers tracking your progress so that freedom in college can get some folks. Just make sure to stay on top on everything from the jump and you will do great!
Steven Dominguez
Project Mgmt
2
Answers
Richardson, Texas
Updated
Steven’s Answer
It varies. Some curriculums are tougher than others, but what truly matters is the effort you invest and what you're passionate about. Trust your heart, and success will follow. When you put in the effort, it all becomes easier. Enjoy the journey of learning and growing from your experiences. Embrace challenges with courage. You’ve got this!
Katie Jacobs
Consultant
12
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Katie’s Answer
Hey, this is a good question. Hopefully you are not feeling apprehensive about the workload in college. College is very different from primary or high school. In high school, you have a designated set of classes that are chosen generally for you and you attend every day at the same time with a very similar structure. In college time management comes into play more significantly, each semester your class schedule changes and on campus events and such might also Become part of your schedule. You have more freedom to determine when you will be doing your studies, your homework, and you will be able to have the independence to determine how you use your time. Depending on what topics you decide to major in, The actual academic piece may be more or less less challenging, but I believe that it is more about how you use your time and dedicate to what you prioritize than the work being difficult, or more difficult than high school. Basically, you get to decide more of what you are interested in and how you use your time.
Joyce Wilkerson
Project Manager
2
Answers
Plainfield, New Jersey
Updated
Joyce’s Answer
College is more organized than high school. They don't contact your parents; you're completely responsible for yourself.
Margie Naguit
3
Answers
Allen, Texas
Updated
Margie’s Answer
College can be easier than high school because you have more freedom and can explore your interests. Even though you might not get as much one-on-one help, you have more chances to learn on your own and grow.
Lisa Edwards
Engineering
2
Answers
Silver Spring, Maryland
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
High school is somewhat harder than high school. It often depends on how your high school prepared you. High school also has fewer specific course offerings. Whereas, in college, there are a variety of subjects and offerings that will spark your interest. Also, you begin to mature academically. If you were a good student in high school, you will most likely want to perform the same in college as long as you apply yourself when making time to study and dedicate more time to learning. Even if you were an average student in college, often once a student attends college, they raise the level of their academic success. While you may start your college journey taking more "general" classes/lectures, you will soon find out what really sparks your interest. Sometimes, it's the classes that are honing into a particular aspect of a subject that become more interesting. When classes are more interesting, student generally apply themselves differently which is an asset. You'll find yourself inquisitive and interested in learning more.
Take courses of interest from professors with a reputation
Visit colleges and ask to attend classes so you can get a feel for what college classes are likeare like
Ask questions. Attend a professors office hours.
Get involved in study groups or create one
Talk to your advisor or counselor and even friends/students so they can provide helpful advice
Lisa recommends the following next steps:
Wendy Schwimer
project manager
1
Answer
Collegeville, Pennsylvania
Updated
Wendy’s Answer
High school was easier because it was free, and my parents helped me with my homework and drove me to school. College was tougher since I had to write long papers as an English Lit major and make sure I could pay for classes and books. But once you settle into a routine, it will be just fine!
Theresa Staten
Network Engineer
2
Answers
Yonkers, New York
Updated
Theresa’s Answer
In high school, teachers are there to guide you and help keep you on track. In college, you have a bit more freedom, but it's a chance to show how responsible you can be.
Michael Tysinger
Project Manager -Telecommunications company
3
Answers
Richmond, Virginia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
You will find that you have a lot more freedom with your time in college than you did in high school. This can present a challenge, so try to work haard at time managment. Plan out your schedule around your classes to set aside study time, as well as extracurricular activities to get the most out of your college experience. Depending on the size of the school, you can feel like just another "number" if you don't watch out, so I would encourage you to make one-on-one contact with your prefessors to make that relactionship more personnal.
Enjoy your time but stay focused on the reason you are there, to get your degree.
Enjoy your time but stay focused on the reason you are there, to get your degree.
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
591
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Lyons,
That's an interesting question, and there are so many facets to it. You got a lot of responses already, that I don't want to repeat.
Academically, university is supposed to be "harder", in the sense of at a higher level, than high-school. On the other hand, in university you get to study what you want to study, i.e. what you are interested in and have talent for. In that sense I found college easier. I didn't have to do history and interpret poems and all that stuff! I could focus on science.
Mostly, university is just different. There is much less hand-holding. Classes move much faster, and it's up to you to put in the work and keep up. You also need to organize yourself and manage your time.
I hope this helps! All the best to you! You got this!
KP
That's an interesting question, and there are so many facets to it. You got a lot of responses already, that I don't want to repeat.
Academically, university is supposed to be "harder", in the sense of at a higher level, than high-school. On the other hand, in university you get to study what you want to study, i.e. what you are interested in and have talent for. In that sense I found college easier. I didn't have to do history and interpret poems and all that stuff! I could focus on science.
Mostly, university is just different. There is much less hand-holding. Classes move much faster, and it's up to you to put in the work and keep up. You also need to organize yourself and manage your time.
I hope this helps! All the best to you! You got this!
KP
April Yalenezian
Wireless Engineer
6
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
April’s Answer
When I was in high school I had the support of my teachers. My teachers and school contacted my parents if I showed up to school, they contacted my parents if my grades slipped.
When I attended college I was financially responsible to pay my student tuition bill.
Once they had my money they didn't care if I showed up to class or not!
It was my responsibility to show up and do the work!
When I attended college I was financially responsible to pay my student tuition bill.
Once they had my money they didn't care if I showed up to class or not!
It was my responsibility to show up and do the work!
Ce Ji
55
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Ce’s Answer
Hi Lyons, moving from high school to college is like going from a merry-go-round to a roller coaster—it's twice as exciting and a whole new experience! In high school, teachers guide you like a GPS, but in college, you chart your own course. High school lessons are like wading in shallow water, while college takes you diving into the deep sea of knowledge. Once you get used to learning on your own, you'll discover that exploring freely is way more fun than the step-by-step approach in high school.
Atria Mier (she/her/ella)
Humanitarian worker
3
Answers
Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain
Updated
Atria’s Answer
For me, university was easier than high school. You get to study subjects you love, meet people with similar interests, and enjoy more freedom. Although it was more challenging because each subject required more effort and you had to keep track of your own progress, it helped me develop self-discipline and taught me how to manage my time and priorities. I wish you the best of luck! The key is to pick a field of study that truly excites you—not just one that might lead to a high-paying job. When you follow your passions, everything else falls into place naturally.
Mike Barros
Telecom engineer
2
Answers
Franklin, Massachusetts
Updated
Mike’s Answer
Great question, Lyons! In high school, you usually have to follow their set curriculum. But in college, after you meet the basic requirements, you can focus on what really interests you. This makes college feel easier because when you're excited about a subject, you learn more and can explore it deeply. Keep following your passions!
Steven Anderson
PM
3
Answers
Springfield, Missouri
Updated
Steven’s Answer
If you have a good lower educational foundation k-12th then college will be a breeze!!