College Word Search & Crossword Puzzle – Printable Activity
How many of your students think the FAFSA is a new TikTok trend? 😂
They may be college-bound—or maybe not—but either way, understanding college vocabulary is key to making informed choices.
This no-prep, college word search and college crossword puzzle set introduces students to essential terms they’ll encounter in IEP meetings, financial aid discussions, and campus life. And while it may look like a simple puzzle… it’s actually a tool for opportunity and access.
College Vocabulary Terms Featured
Associate degree, bachelor's, certificate, dissertation, doctorate, dormitories, entrance exams, FAFSA, graduate, major, master's, quarter, scholarship, semester, student loans, thesis, tuition, undergraduate.
What’s Inside This College Word Search & Crossword Puzzle Pack
College Word Search – Great for introducing new vocabulary
College Crossword Puzzle (with Word Bank) – Support for earlier learners
College Crossword Puzzle (no Word Bank) – A challenge for confident students
Vocabulary Reference Sheet – Clear definitions and relatable examples
Answer Keys – Easy for grading or student self-check
As a teacher, I’ve always had mixed feelings about placing too strong an emphasis on college. On one hand, I don’t want a student to feel pressured into college if it’s not the right fit. But on the other hand, I work with many first-gen students who’ve had limited exposure to college—and I want that door to be open if it’s the choice for them.
Helping students learn the language of college is one small way we can give them access, confidence, and informed choice.
That’s why I also created my Exploring Life After High School: College, Career & Training Options Lesson. It walks students through six of the most common postsecondary paths:
College/University – Types of institutions, degrees, majors, and certificate programs
Trade/Vocational Schools – Side-by-side comparison with college
Apprenticeships – “Earn while you learn” options like electrician programs
Internships – Understand how they differ from other pathways
Military – Overview of branches and education funding options
Alternative Routes – Employment, gap years, volunteering, adult ed, entrepreneurship
It’s all about helping students make informed, confident decisions—and figure out what really makes sense for them.
But I digress—back to the College Word Search & Crossword Puzzle!
⭐ How to Use This in the Classroom
Sub Plans That Don’t Feel Like Fluff – Easy to prep, easy to explain. This is a lifesaver when you’re going to be out or for those surprise moments when you’re asked to cover someone else’s class at the last minute. 👉 No Sub Plan? No Problem. Adulting Activities to the Rescue!
Brain Breaks with Purpose – Mental rest with a side of vocabulary review
Differentiated Practice – Let students choose their own adventure (aka challenge level)
❤️ Why Teachers Love This Resource
Zero-Prep Setup – Just print and go
Real-Life Relevance – Helps students understand and talk about college
Student Engagement – Feels like a break, but works like a lesson
ELL-Friendly – Visual support with repeated exposure
These puzzles aren’t just busy work—they help reinforce real college readiness terms your students will encounter in the real world.
📚 Dig Into the Research
Curious about the science behind using puzzles with teens and adult learners?
👉 Benefits of Word Searches & Crossword Puzzles for Adult Learners
👀 Want to Take a Peek?
Check out the preview, or head to my store to get your copy!
🧠 Looking for More?
Love using puzzles to teach life skills?
👉 Explore the full Adulting Games and Word Puzzle collection here
