Guidelines for choosing a college are directed to high school students, and specifically students in Montgomery County, Maryland public schools. After briefly describing what is offered by two-year and four-year colleges, information is provided on what college admissions committees look for in making admissions decisions, such as class rank. The following criteria for choosing a college are identified: admission requirements, class size, costs, program offerings, quotas, college size, special needs, location, sponsorship, academic atmosphere, grading policies, handling student problems, prestige, social structure, and type of student body. Seven types of admissions programs are explained, such as early decision and midyear admission. Also considered are sources of information for students and nine myths. Six tests college-bound students may need to take are briefly described, and tips are offered on how students can market themselves to colleges. Appendices include: a list of steps students should pursue in college planning for grades 9, 10, 11, and 12; a glossary; information on student financial aid and college expenses; a selected list of colleges classified as "most competitive,""highly competitive," and "very competitive"; a list of predominantly black colleges by state; and a list of colleges that participated in the spring 1985, Montgomery County College Fair. (SW)