PARENT’S GUIDE TO COLLEGE PLANNING

You probably began thinking about a college education for your child at his or her birth. Now that the momentous occasion is near, you may be wondering how to manage this competitive, costly, and challenging stage in your child's life. Although the rising expense of a college education is probably foremost in your mind, it's not the only hurdle you face in helping your child achieve a higher education. With more than 3,000 colleges and universities throughout the United States, the college selection and application process can be a daunting maze. You may also feel anxious about your child's health and safety during these crucial steps toward independence.
Planning is key -- and not just in financial matters, but in the entire college education process itself. There is no single correct path leading to your child's college degree, but following the guidelines below can set you on an accurate course. Remember, although you want to play a part in this important life choice, your role should be a supporting, not a starring, one.
  • Listen to your child, and separate your aspirations from his or her career goals.
  • Create opportunities for your child to make decisions, and then respect the decision he or she makes.
  • Encourage your child to take the SAT tests in his or her junior year.
  • At the beginning of your child's senior year, contact each college choice for a catalog and application information, including admission and financial forms.
  • Submit all forms well before the deadline date, and then contact each institution to verify that the appropriate personnel received all the required paperwork.
  • Schedule time to visit each college selection, perhaps making appointments to speak to admissions officers, deans, professors, coaches, and students.
  • Talk with your child about the college experience. Discuss health and safety issues, such as substance abuse, safe sex, and campus crime. You may also want to explain the costs and uses of an ATM or credit card.

Many resources that offer advice to parents of college-bound children are available, including organizations, books, tapes, and Web sites. You may want to click on the following home pages.
College Parents of America (CPA)
www.collegeparents.org

CPA helps you plan for and finance your child's college education easily, economically, and safely. It's the only national membership association dedicated to helping parents with this challenge. As a member, you not only receive valuable guidance, but discounts on products and services, such as computers, college guides and books, and CPA's student prepaid and credit card program.

The Education Network
www.Edunetwork.com

The Education Network offers help to parents of college-bound students. Advice covers numerous relevant college-planning topics. Learn about choosing a college, test planning and college action timetables, finance strategies such as PLUS and STAFFORD loans, and what you as a parent can do to help your child in this very important life choice.
As your child's advisor, the most important things you can do are to present options and issues that he or she may overlook and to support your child's decisions at this momentous stage of their lives. Good luck!