Completing the application process:

Tips for Parents

Plan Ahead:  The college application process can be expensive and a stressful process for any family.  Talk to your student about how you can assist him/her in the process and have this discussion early, not later than the summer before their senior year of high school.  Be aware of application deadlines in advance and plan an on-campus visit if possible.

Be Organized:  There are numerous organizational and informational websites and publications to assist you and your student with the application process.  Become familiar with the Colorado College website. Find information about financial aid, scholarships, and grants at websites such as Fastweb.org and Collegeboard.org, start a ‘tickler file’ and set up an application deadline calendar linked to your email and your students email.  Collegeboard.org has additional tips and calendars for your student to customize.

Be Creative:  The cost of higher education can be daunting.  Be realistic about what you can afford to contribute to your student’s education and set aside ample time to research financial aid from numerous resources.   There are many free financial aid search services online.   Talk to your student about summer employment or a part-time job during his/her senior year of high school.  Start your search early to avoid disappointment down the road.  Completing your federal and state tax return early will assist you in completing the College Board CSS/Financial Aid Profile and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Be Supportive:  While your student may find your involvement in his/her search process annoying, agree to set boundaries about what kind of support is appropriate and how much hands-on involvement from you is comfortable.  Some students are highly motivated and others need a little extra encouragement.

Be Patient!