Talk to your teenager about their college goals and what they hope to achieve with their education.

When it comes to preparing for college, it's important to have conversations with your teenager about their career aspirations and college goals. Discussing what they hope to achieve with their education can be a great way to help them stay motivated and on track. It's also important to ask them questions that encourage critical thinking like, what values do you see in the field you want to pursue? How do those values align with the educational institutions you are considering? Helping your teen develop their own answers to these questions can provide valuable insight into which colleges may offer the best fit. With open lines of communication, meaningful discussions and support, you can both set your teen up for success in college and beyond.

Make a balanced list of colleges that fit your teenager's criteria and are affordable for your family.

Crafting a balance of colleges that fit the criteria and needs of both your teenager and your family's budget can be tricky. Start by having your teen make a list of, at minimum, 5 schools that all should be in reach academically. Then you can start cross-referencing this wishlist with affordability options – including financial aid, research scholarships and other local grants. When creating balance it is important to consider not only tuition costs but also location, size and resources offered. This can help narrow down the college search considerably while still allowing them to explore all the different aspects that apply to their education and future.

Visit each college on the list with your teenager to get a feel for the campus and see if it's a good fit.

Visiting colleges is an essential part of the college application process. Seeing the school in person can often help your teenager to get a better sense of it than what can be gleaned from online research and brochures. Each college will have its own culture, atmosphere, and unique advantages to offer students. It's important that your child take the time to explore many different campuses, so you should visit each one on their list. You'll both be able to take a tour, ask questions of admissions representatives, and get an in-depth look at the campus during your visit. That way your teenager will truly be able to make the best choice for their future.

Ultimately, talking to your teenager about college and helping them through the process takes commitment and a lot of parental involvement. It is never too early to begin preparing for college, so starting the conversation early will help reduce stress levels all around. Being aware of your teenager's goals and objectives as well as their interests are all crucial in shaping their college experience for the better. No matter what direction your child decides to take for their future, being supportive and encouraging throughout the process can only lead to successful outcomes. College is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming; taking the necessary steps with your teen can make sure that the transition goes smoothly. With thoughtful consideration and planning, guiding your teenager through college applications can be a meaningful experience for both you and your child.