Preparing for college requires setting goals, staying focused, and tackling key milestones, starting in the first year of high school; encourage your child to choose challenging classes and explore extracurricular activities. Junior year is all about standardized testing like the PSAT/NMSQT, which is required for many scholarships, and in the spring, students should take the SAT or ACT. Applying early to colleges and submitting the FAFSA can increase acceptance chances and unlock potential financial aid opportunities.

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Visiting a college campus is an important step in the college selection process because it provides firsthand experience and insights into the college's environment, culture, and facilities. When planning your campus visits, allow time to explore each college and talk to college admissions staff, professors, and students. Be sure to take part in a group information session at the admissions office and interview with an admission officer to gather information.

Choosing the right college involves keeping an open mind and challenging assumptions about what works for you. Research schools in depth using college guide websites and by connecting with admissions officials to get your questions answered. Remember that many colleges can be a good fit, so consider a range of options based on your SAT or ACT scores and personal preferences.

Discover how to choose the right college for you by reflecting on what's important, where you want to be, and who you want to become. Consider factors such as size, location, available majors, housing options, student body makeup, extracurricular activities, and campus atmosphere to find colleges where you can thrive. Learn how to narrow down your options and determine what you want to accomplish in college.

College marks a great milestone, and it may be the first time your child lives away from home. To make the transition smoother, understand that your role transitions from supervisor to mentor. Help your child learn financial responsibility and take the lead from them on what to bring.

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College inflation is impacting families, with costs rising faster than general inflation due to factors like decreased public funding and increased administrative expenses. Increased student loan debt and the disproportionate burden on families are significant effects of higher college costs. Discover how to navigate college expenses without impacting your future financial life by attending our workshops, and learn strategies beyond just stuffing a 529 plan.