A study designed to determine aptitudes, skills, and sociological and personal factors characterizing rural youth analyzed educational and personal differences of 2,929 students in eight rural Illinois counties during 1963-64. From data obtained through academic tests and personal questionnaires, it was concluded that although three-fourths of rural youth entering high school were unlikely to attend a college or university, rural high schools were largely oriented to college preparation. Few vocational training opportunities were offered in rural high schools although results indicated that most non-college-prone youth needed more training in mechanical skills. Inadequate high school counseling was indicated by lack of knowledge of occupational training needs on the part of rural youth. Implications of the study included the need for further consolidation of small rural school systems and for closer integration of rural systems with the total state system. A bibliography is included. (JH)