Research the colleges you are interested in attending. Make sure each one offers accounting degrees. You should also research the cost per credit hour, as well as additional fees, to find out whether each school fits within your budget. Finally, if you prefer either online or more traditional classes, find out if the colleges you are considering offer the type of classes you want to take.
Speak to the admissions office at the school you would like to attend. The admissions office can tell you the requirements for application, which typically include your high school transcripts or proof that you have passed a GED test. Additionally, some schools may require college entry test scores, such as ACT or SAT. Some colleges might also require letters of recommendation from references and writing samples.
Apply to the college that best fits your needs and your academic preparation. If you are applying to a large university, be prepared to wait weeks or even a few months to find out whether you have been accepted. Community colleges may provide a quicker response.
Apply for financial aid. Scholarships, loans, and grants are available, and some specifically target adults returning to college. It is important to understand the terms of any money you accept. Some grants and scholarships require you to maintain a specific grade point average, while student loans charge interest rates.
Speak to the accounting department at the college you will be attending. You usually won't formally declare your major or begin taking accounting courses during your first year. However, the accounting department will let you know what classes are prerequisites for entering the program.
Apply for the accounting program at your college. After you've taken some of your general education classes, you can apply to be formally admitted to the accounting program. This process might require another round of applications, testing and references. Be prepared to show your best work, especially if it is a competitive program. Once you've been admitted, you can begin your core accounting coursework.