How to get a bachelor’s degree?
By: Amanda Dexter, Edited by: Alec Surmani
Last updated: May 23, 2025
Having a bachelor's degree can open up many new opportunities in today's competitive job market. If you have decided that earning an undergraduate degree is the right move for you, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to successfully navigate your journey into higher education.
Steps to get a bachelor's degree
Going to school to get a bachelor's degree is a big decision that should not be taken lightly, but if you're committed to furthering your education, here are the basic steps in the process:
Step 1: Research and prepare
Before choosing the university you want to attend, make sure to research and evaluate your options. There are numerous factors to consider before choosing a school.
Academic factors
- Institutional accreditation
- Enrollment and class sizes
- Admissions requirements
- Majors and degree programs offered
- Mode of instruction (in-person, hybrid, online)
- Expertise level of professors
- Tuition and total costs
- Potential career paths after graduation
Location and cultural factors
- Geographic location and distance
- Local culture, events, and services
- On-campus amenities and facilities
- Campus size and layout
- Extracurricular opportunities
- Athletics programs
- Student support services
Step 2: Apply to schools
The vast majority of colleges and universities require applicants to do more than fill out an online form, although the specific documents you need to provide may vary by institution. You may also have to pay an application fee that varies per school.
Application basics
- Make sure you meet the minimum requirements for admission, which vary by institution and program. Some require you to meet or exceed a particular GPA, class rank percentile, or ACT/SAT score to even be considered.
- If you are applying to multiple schools, you need to submit a new application for each.
- The more selective and prestigious the university is, the more impressive your application package needs to be.
Commonly required documentation
- High school transcripts
- Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement, college essay, or short answer questions
- Application fees
- Proof of citizenship and residence
Application strategies
- Apply to multiple schools
- Meet application deadlines
- Highlight activities, volunteer work, and leadership roles
- Put time and effort into crafting a great essay
- Proofread all materials carefully and check for completion
Step 3: Secure funding
Unfortunately, bachelor's degree programs aren't cheap, but you do have options when it comes to paying for them.
Financial aid options
- Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form before the deadline
- Apply for all the school-sponsored or third-party scholarships you can find
- Explore work-study programs offered through your university
- Take out private student loans from your bank or other lender
Other financial considerations
- Understand the total cost of a bachelor's degree beyond tuition and textbooks
- Check if online or hybrid courses are offered for a cheaper price per credit hour
- Check if your current employer has any programs that may help pay tuition costs
- Graduate earlier by taking a heavier course load each semester
Step 4: Pass your classes
Adjusting your lifestyle, rearranging your priorities, and managing your time can make your journey to a bachelor's degree much smoother.
Tips for success
- Attend all classes regularly
- Participate in lessons, class discussions, and labs
- Communicate respectfully with professors
- Utilize your professor's office hours
- Keep important deadlines, test dates, and reminders in a planner
Potential challenges
- Maintaining minimum GPA requirements
- Procrastination and poor time management
- Balancing work, school, studying, and personal life
- Managing stress and your mental health
- Avoiding academic misconduct, disciplinary issues, and legal trouble
Step 5: Fulfill degree requirements
Beyond coursework, the final stretch of the road to graduation has additional steps specific to your institution. Here are tasks commonly required before you receive your diploma:
- Meet with your academic advisor
- Conduct a degree audit to ensure you have all the credits necessary
- Fulfill major-specific requirements, like internships, student teaching, and occupation-related tests
- Pass the college exit exam
- Pay any outstanding fees and return borrowed equipment
- Order your graduation regalia by the deadline
Explore bachelor's degrees
Whether you want to advance in your current career or change careers entirely, explore edX's variety of online bachelor's degree programs to get started on your new education adventure.