How to Become a Criminal Justice Student
- 1). Acquire a high school diploma or an accredited GED. All accredited criminal justice programs at the collegiate level require high school graduation or equivalent.
- 2). Take the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Testing Program (ACT). Most colleges now require applicants to take a standardized test for admission. An exception to this requirement may be applied to adults that have been out of high school for four years. Check with the institution to verify specific national college examination requirements.
- 3). Contact the college of your choice to determine the application process. Some colleges may require additional material, such as a letter of recommendation, an interview and proof of community service and leadership qualities before admission is granted. Start by checking the website of the college and university, as admissions and other information of interest to prospective students it typically available online.
- 4). Apply to the college of your choice. Do limit yourself to traditional brick and mortar colleges, as several online schools offer criminal justice degrees as well. Consider all of your options and narrow your choices down three to five schools. Complete the applications process for each school and be prepared to pay an application fee if required.
- 5). Wait for an acceptance letter. Depending on when you apply, it can take weeks or months to receive an acceptance into a college or university. Be patient. After receiving your acceptance letters, decide which school you want to attend.
- 6). Meet with an academic advisor at the school of your choice. The advisor will help you to select and register for classes in your first semester as a criminal justice student. After registration, purchase books for your classes and begin classes on their designated start date.
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