Assess your grades. Most schools have a cut-off level; if your grades are below that number, you won't get in. This cut-off level is different for each school, but if you have an 85 percent average there is little point in aiming for a school that requires 95 percent. You may be able to transfer after a year or two in another school.
Determine your budget. Many schools offer a lower tuition fee for students from the state and some offer decreased fees for students from nearby states. How much you are able to spend may limit your search area. If you have extremely high grades you may qualify for a full or partial scholarship, which could expand your geographic search options.
Decide on the branch of engineering you wish to pursue. If you aren't sure or want a broad education, look for schools that offer programs all the way to the doctorate level. These schools tend to offer a broader range of subjects than schools that end at the bachelor's or master's level.
Conduct a search with Dedicated Engineers website, findengineeringschools.org. Dedicated Engineers is a non-profit group of engineers working to help new engineers access the field. You can search by cost, location, engineering field, or look up schools directly.
Review the listings from U.S. News & World Report at colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/engineering. Their online ranking provides basic information about each accredited engineering program, divided by both type and by schools with and without doctorate programs. There is a more detailed book and online version available for purchase, or your high-school guidance counselor may have a copy.