GET EDUCATED ON THE CURRENT STATE OF COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

College admissions is fluid and ever-changing and has transformed radically in the last few decades. What’s more, parents need to realize that the admissions process is a significantly different ballgame than it was when they applied. Before even suggesting colleges for your student to consider, it’s imperative to educate yourself on the current state of admissions and the rise in competition in the already highly-selective admissions landscape. Click here for even more college planning resources.   

SET ASIDE TIME 

The college planning process is both time-intensive and time-sensitive. We recommend families set aside time (but not too much time!) in their schedules the summer before senior year especially to prepare for college applications. Make sure your student feels supported and has the information and understanding to own their college search. The summer is a great time to assist (not takeover!) your student as she considers her college major, builds a balanced college list, takes the SAT or ACT, and organizes college visits. Read our tips for keeping the college process stress-free for your family.

ENCOURAGE YOUR STUDENT TO APPLY TO A WIDE RANGE OF COLLEGES

Due to the staggering increase in selectivity and the fluid nature of college admissions, encourage your student to look at a wide range of colleges. By range we mean, geographical, college size, and of course, selectivity. There are thousands of excellent colleges in the nation that will support your student’s success, and we encourage students and parents to keep an open mind and venture beyond name-brand colleges. Check out our hidden gems series for even more inspiration. 

RESIST THE TEMPTATION TO COACH YOUR STUDENT ON THEIR ESSAY

One of the most important aspects of a college essay is that it reflects the authors–your student–in both voice and experience. As hard as it might be, resist the editorial urge to coach your student’s essay! It can be difficult to be objective about your student’s story and writing ability (for better or for worse), and we’ve noticed that parent-coached essays often unintentionally lose the student's voice. Instead, encourage your student to reach out to an English teacher or another trusted adult if they need help brainstorming or editing. 

REVIEW THE APPLICATION CAREFULLY 

Chances are high that your student will be filling out the Common App or another application management system like Coalition. Long before your student hits submit, agree that at least two sets of fresh eyes review the application before submitting. This will ensure that any application errors are caught long before the submission deadline–when application servers become increasingly buggy. 

PREPARE YOUR TAXES EARLY

This is especially important for families who plan on applying for financial aid. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens annually on October 1, and cost-conscious families should plan to submit their application as soon as possible.