If you've received your acceptance letter, congratulations! All of your hard work has paid off. Here are 8 tips to help you get your ducks in a row before you embark on this new chapter of your life.

Applying to post-secondary education can be an overwhelming process but being accepted is also the beginning of an exciting adventure! Make sure you celebrate and enjoy this moment before you start working on your next steps.

1. Secure your spot

Make sure to contact the institution to confirm that you accept their offer. Your acceptance letter should include instructions about your next steps and when they need to be completed. Failing to comply with those instructions may result in losing your place in the program.

If you received acceptance letters from different post-secondary institutions, make sure to contact those schools that you will not be attending as this will free up space for other students hoping to attend.

2. Do some research... again

You probably did some research before submitting your application but try to do it again to make sure nothing has changed. Ask about tuition and fees, housing options and costs, visit the campus, attend information sessions for admitted students, and get all of your questions answered.

3. Save up!

Money is always a very important topic when talking about post-secondary education. Having your finances in order before attending College or University can save you many headaches.

Make sure you have a plan to cover all the expenses related to your program, which could include tuition, students' fees, and textbooks. There might also be some other fees that you don't realize exist, like parking on campus or using a fitness facility.

Keep in mind that you still will have to pay for your cellphone bill, car insurance, food, rent, and all those other personal expenses that don't go away just because you are a student, so don't forget to add these to your budget.

4. Apply for scholarships, bursaries, and awards

There are plenty of options out there, so make sure you ask!

Try searching scholarships, bursaries and awards on a search engine of your choice, and look internally at your institution. Most of the time you only need to write an essay or fill out a form to be considered for some free money. Don't just look one time! You'll have to keep at it to really be successful.

5. Check out the social aspects

Look up the different events and activities available on and off campus. This can give you a good idea of what students do to socialize outside of the classroom or where the locals go to have fun. Knowing this before you get to campus can help you meet people faster.

6. Make sure you have access to your student portal

This is usually the place where you can view program dates, payment due dates, course add/drop deadlines, program withdrawal deadlines and other important dates. This is also where you can see your class timetable, student account, etc. You can also view or update your personal information on this portal.

7. Attend the new student orientation

It is important to attend one of the new student orientations as it will provide you with very important information about services and supports available for students on campus. It is also a good opportunity to get to know other first year/returning students.

8. Take some time for yourself

It has been a long journey but you made it! Make sure to take some "me time" before you start this new chapter of your life.

If you are interested in applying to Olds College or learning more about the application process, visit our website at www.oldscollege.ca, or email us at info@oldscollege.ca.