High school students across the state will have the chance to learn about different universities and technical colleges through the Next Step Idaho virtual college fair to be held from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sept. 29, 30 and Oct. 1.

Most years, representatives from different universities across the state would visit high school juniors in-person, said Jeralyn Mire, a post-secondary transition counselor at Sandpoint High School.

This year, however, the state turned to online services because of COVID-19 limitations. While there are downsides to an online college fair, it also allows for more accessibility, she said.

One benefit, Mire said, is that it’s open to any student or family, including homeschoolers and those going to private school. Another is that it allows attendees to ask questions about a process that many find stressful and confusing.

Because this is the first time Idaho educators have worked with an online fair, some of the details of how it will run are not completely known, Mire said. But, she said, something is always better than nothing.

“My advice for families would be to hang in there for a few minutes and give people a chance to answer questions,” she said. “Don’t just click in and click out.”

Students can also learn more about what different majors entail, as well as various technical skills they can learn.

In Idaho, students get accepted into all eight of the state’s higher education schools automatically if they meet necessary academic benchmarks, Mire said, and six that offer certificate or degree programs if they do not.

Students are still allowed to apply to schools they’re not automatically accepted at or schools outside the state. But, Mire said, the program allows students more career and educational opportunities.

“It’s not just that traditional four-year college [option],” Mire said. “It’s really to help students whatever their path is.”

To register for the online college fair, visit nextstepsidahocollegefair.vfairs.com.