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JANESSA
Student
Midwest City, Oklahoma
1
Question
Asked
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Planning College.
I'm 13 and I want to start planning college. I stay In Oklahoma and I'm trying to find a good college without being too far away from home. I also want to stay in a dorm, but I don't want it to be too expensive but nice
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Kelly Christensen
Recruiter
10
Answers
Copperopolis, California
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
Great news — you're already ahead! Starting to think about college at 13 gives you plenty of time to make smart decisions.
Steps to Take Now (at 13)
Focus on grades — GPA matters a lot for scholarships and admissions.
Explore interests — Join clubs, try different activities, and start thinking about what subjects excite you.
Visit campuses — Many Oklahoma schools offer free tours. Seeing a campus in person helps a lot.
Research financial aid early — Learn about FAFSA, which opens in the fall of senior year of high school.
Talk to a school counselor — They can help map out a 4-year high school plan with college in mind.
One Important Reminder
There is no rush to have everything figured out right now. The fact that this student is thinking ahead already puts them in a great position. Encourage curiosity, exploration, and asking lots of questions along the way!
Here's also what to consider:
Colleges in Oklahoma Worth Exploring
Since staying close to home is important, here are some well-regarded options within the state:
University of Oklahoma (OU) — Norman, OK. One of the most well-known schools in the state, with a wide range of programs and strong campus life, including dorms.
Oklahoma State University (OSU) — Stillwater, OK. Great for a variety of majors, known for its welcoming campus community and on-campus housing options.
University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) — Edmond, OK. A more affordable option with solid academics and campus housing.
Northeastern State University (NSU) — Tahlequah, OK. Smaller, affordable, and community-oriented.
Oral Roberts University (ORU) — Tulsa, OK. Known for modern, well-kept dorms and a tight-knit campus.
On Dorms and Affordability
Public universities like OU, OSU, and UCO tend to offer a range of dorm options at different price points — many have newer residence halls that are modern and comfortable without being the most expensive option.
Encourage the student to look for roommate options, which can cut costs significantly.
Many schools offer financial aid, grants, and scholarships — especially for Oklahoma residents. The Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG) and Oklahoma's Promise (Ohlap) scholarship are two programs worth researching early.
Steps to Take Now (at 13)
Focus on grades — GPA matters a lot for scholarships and admissions.
Explore interests — Join clubs, try different activities, and start thinking about what subjects excite you.
Visit campuses — Many Oklahoma schools offer free tours. Seeing a campus in person helps a lot.
Research financial aid early — Learn about FAFSA, which opens in the fall of senior year of high school.
Talk to a school counselor — They can help map out a 4-year high school plan with college in mind.
One Important Reminder
There is no rush to have everything figured out right now. The fact that this student is thinking ahead already puts them in a great position. Encourage curiosity, exploration, and asking lots of questions along the way!
Here's also what to consider:
Colleges in Oklahoma Worth Exploring
Since staying close to home is important, here are some well-regarded options within the state:
University of Oklahoma (OU) — Norman, OK. One of the most well-known schools in the state, with a wide range of programs and strong campus life, including dorms.
Oklahoma State University (OSU) — Stillwater, OK. Great for a variety of majors, known for its welcoming campus community and on-campus housing options.
University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) — Edmond, OK. A more affordable option with solid academics and campus housing.
Northeastern State University (NSU) — Tahlequah, OK. Smaller, affordable, and community-oriented.
Oral Roberts University (ORU) — Tulsa, OK. Known for modern, well-kept dorms and a tight-knit campus.
On Dorms and Affordability
Public universities like OU, OSU, and UCO tend to offer a range of dorm options at different price points — many have newer residence halls that are modern and comfortable without being the most expensive option.
Encourage the student to look for roommate options, which can cut costs significantly.
Many schools offer financial aid, grants, and scholarships — especially for Oklahoma residents. The Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG) and Oklahoma's Promise (Ohlap) scholarship are two programs worth researching early.