What Parents Should Know About College Choice?

Every family is different. Sometimes kids choose their own school. Sometimes parents do. But usually families work together to select an institution that's academically, socially, and financially appropriate.

• Encourage your child to begin the college search process early. This may involve reminding your student to register for standardized tests as well as help him/her request information from prospective schools.
• Define your limits. Are you willing to let your child attend college in downtown Los Angeles? Rural Iowa? Suburban Boston? Are you comfortable having your child live on campus?
• Decide what you can afford. You may want to consult a financial planner about some of your options.
• Talk openly. Share your expectations with your child. Ask him/her to do the same. And work hard to find some common ground.
• Offer to help with college applications. Remind your student about application deadlines and proofread essays.
• Encourage campus visits. Your child is about to make a very important decision. Students will never know if a school is right for them unless they visit.

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