Ten Things Every Parent Should Know About the College Application Process

1. Relax - Your son or daughter will thank you.

Much of the stress that parents feel in the admissions process is self-induced. Choosing colleges, applying, getting admitted, and deciding where to enroll isn't easy. There's a lot of work involved, and it's drawn out over a long period of time. The best way to avoid stress is to plan slowly and deliberately, using a calendar that builds in an ample cushion for time-sensitive endeavors.

2. Make a plan-of-action calendar and stick to it!

Together with your son or daughter and his or her college counselor, construct an outline for the entire college admissions process, from initial browsing for information to deciding where to attend. Create an itinerary for visiting colleges and gathering your financial information for filing aid forms. Post the calendar in a handy location, touching base periodically with your child to monitor progress.

3. Plan for admissions tests.

In this competitive admissions environment, standardized tests are becoming increasingly important. In addition to the SAT and ACT, the most important college admissions tests, there are other exams students should consider. The PSAT not only helps students practice for the SAT, it allows them to qualify for National Merit scholarships. The SAT subject tests are necessary for admissions to many competitive colleges; student should take each subject test immediately after they finish the class. Advanced Placement exams are administered in a variety of subjects. Passing the AP test means that students are able to receive college credit or even pass out of a certain college prerequisite courses. Students should take AP tests after they have taken AP courses.

4. Do not contact college admissions offices for your child.

Colleges track the contacts they have with prospective students and applicants. It doesn't look good if the college has spoken with you and has never had any contact with your child, the actual applicant. (Sounds like Mrs. Smith really wants to come here!)

5. Keep a record of everything.

Set up file folders for each college to which your child is applying. Keep all correspondence within these folders. Document phone calls as well - always get the names and titles of those with whom you have had contact. Quick and comprehensive access to all pertinent materials will pay off in the long run.

6. File all financial aid forms as soon as possible in October.

Do all tax forms promptly so you can complete the required financial aid applications. Have your taxes ready to be filed so that you can complete the FAFSA as soon as possible. Funds are disbursed until depleted, so it pays to apply for your FAFSA early.

7. Be on the lookout for scholarship opportunities for your son or daughter.

Many employers, social clubs, and religious organizations offer scholarships. Be sure to check with these organizations early, before your child's senior year. A lot of these programs have selection calendars that do not mesh with the college admissions calendar. Don't miss out due to lack of awareness. The scholarship list on Google Classroom is a warehouse of scholarships. The list is updated as we receive new scholarship information on a regular basis. Applications may be downloaded from Google Classroom or your child will be provided the link to the online application.

8. Visit your child's top college options.

If you can, visit all of the colleges where your child is applying. There is no substitute for a campus visit. And never stick strictly to a "packaged" admissions visit consisting of an information session/interview and a slide show or tour. Balance the experience by lunching on your own in the dining hall and browsing around campus. When you visit colleges, make sure that you allow enough time on campus for your son or daughter to explore on his or her own. You might find this the perfect time to meet with a financial aid officer.

9. Be aware of the application process.

Most colleges now have their application for admission on their website and students must apply online. Have your student sign up for an Application Help Session in the Cafe College if help is needed.

10. Remember that you're not going to college; your child is.

There's no doubt that you should have some say in the matter, just remember to keep it in perspective. Parental input should focus on the mechanics of making a choice, not on the choice itself. Be frank and direct about any absolutes, such as financial limitations, but be low-key and reserved about the characteristics you think they want in a college. Remember that this will be your child’s college experience, not yours.