Role of Parents in the College Application Process

Parents walk a fine line when it comes to their children and college applications.  Getting too involved will earn the title of “helicopter parent.” Leaving everything to the student and hoping for the best – well that’s quite risky! There is a healthy middle ground. The ideal role for parents is to help with research, provide informational opportunities, and handle the financials.

Often students feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start the college process, so parents should help identify colleges that may be an ideal match.  The best way to start is by discussing what major might be of interest. Many students don’t know exactly what career they want to pursue, but they will likely know whether or not they are interested in science, business, engineering, education, or the arts, for example.  This knowledge alone will help to narrow down the research process. Together, parents and students can look up potential majors in College Board’s Book of Majors. Or they can visit collegescorecard.ed.gov which will identify every college that offers each major, as well as the average cost of attending the school and the average salary of its graduates in each particular field.

Using this information, and combining it with preferred geographical location, size of school, and any other criteria important to the student, will help to generate a list of potential “best-fit colleges.” Now it’s road trip time, if colleges have opened up. If not, students can sit in the comfort of their homes and do virtual tours.  Parents can also help students gather information by taking them to informational seminars hosted by college representatives at local hotels.

Of course, finances are often a key aspect of the college decision. Parents should file a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible after October 1st of their child’s senior year. They will immediately find out their EFC (estimated family contribution), letting them know what colleges expect them to contribute to their child’s education.  This is the criteria that determines need-based aid.  Parents should also seek scholarships from any organizations with which they are affiliated, including religious, social, and work-related organizations.  Once the available scholarships and financial aid have been determined, students will have a better idea of their options.    

Susan Alaimo is the founder and director of Collegebound Review that, for the past 25 years, has offered PSAT/SAT® preparation and private college advising by Ivy League educated instructors. Visit CollegeboundReview.com or call 908-369-5362