Getting ready to graduate high school is one of the biggest moments of your child’s life. On top of leaving behind everything they’ve known during their teenage years, such as their hometown and their friends, they have a huge decision to make; where to go to college.
Choosing a college, and creating a college plan, isn’t easy. It’s going to encompass at least the next four years of their life. It will shape, mold, and prepare them for the rest of their adult life.
Not only do they need to choose where to go, but they need to navigate the tricky waters of college admissions, then figure out the logistics of moving to and living there.
Wondering how to choose a college, and then how to apply to college? Keep reading to find out now.
Choosing a College
There are tons of factors that go into picking a college. For starters, do they want to live on campus, or do they want to live at home and commute to a nearby school? Do they want to move across the country for the next journey of their life, or do they prefer the comfort of their home state?
Many high school students are nervous about living away from home for the first time. But if they can overcome that and choose a school in an exciting new place, they will make memories for a lifetime.
Also, if your student has a particular degree they are going to pursue, that will factor into the school they choose. Many schools around the country specialize in one or two areas, such as arts and writing, engineering and computer sciences, business and marketing, and much more.
Graduating from these types of schools can add a much-needed resume booster for getting a job in their field right after school.
Getting Accepted
Once a school is chosen, it’s time to apply. This should be done as early during their senior year as possible.
Submitting an application can be time-consuming, but luckily, many schools have streamlined the application process. Instead of having to apply for many different schools, you can fill out one college application. Then, this application can be sent and accepted by hundreds of schools around the country.
More prestigious schools might still have their own application requirements, however.
Along with the application, your student will need to submit a college admissions essay. This is essentially a cover letter, describing why your student wants to get into a particular school, and why the school should accept them.
It’s a very important part of the application and should not be rushed. In fact, you can even find admission essay help online, to ensure the essay is done properly.
Planning the Move
During the Spring of their senior year, your student should start getting responses back regarding their admissions. If they’re lucky, they’ll have plenty of acceptance letters.
Now they’ve got to narrow it down and choose one, so they can start planning their move.
Next, you’ll need to choose and apply for student housing as early as possible. Plan what your student will need to bring or buy to outfit their new dorm or apartment.
And if the school is far away, make sure to book them airfare so they can come home during their school breaks.
Crafting Your College Plan
Having a college plan ready at the start of senior year will make the entire process easier for both you and your student. You want them to know exactly what goes into college applications, as well as timeframes for the whole year.
This will help them keep college applications on their mind as they do their best to finish high school strong.
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