How can I help my parents understand the college process?

I'm starting the college application process, and I want to involve my parents more. How can I explain the steps and expectations to them in a way that's easy to understand? Are there resources specifically for parents?

You've taken an important step towards navigating the college admissions process by involving your parents. You can guide them through the process by simplifying key aspects of college applications, financial aid, and decision-making.

Here's a quick rundown:

1. Understanding Student Responsibilities: Explain that the process involves researching schools, preparing for and taking standardized tests (if required by the colleges you are applying to), completing application forms, writing essays, gathering recommendation letters, and finally, reviewing and submitting all materials by the deadline.

2. College Research: Discuss the importance of researching colleges, including location, size, available majors, student life, and the overall vibe of the campus. Encourage them to aid in this research, visit schools with you if feasible, and discuss what each school can offer.

3. Standardized Testing: Inform your parents about the tests you might take (SAT/ACT), their costs, and testing dates. Explain how the scores can influence college admissions decisions, but also stress that many schools are now 'test-optional', meaning they don't require or consider these scores.

4. Applications: Describe the Common Application, Coalition Application, or individual school applications, the essay prompts and other requirements like transcripts and letters of recommendation. Let them know that these are usually due between November and January of Senior Year.

5. Financial aid and scholarships: Tell them about FAFSA and CSS Profile; these forms need to be completed for need-based financial aid. Show them where to find school's Net Price Calculators to estimate the potential cost of a particular college. Discuss also any potential for merit scholarships.

6. Decision Time: Finally, discuss how you'll receive decisions (acceptance, waitlist, or denial) from colleges and then you'll make your final choice.

For resources specifically for parents, I recommend CollegeVine's parent guide and applying with CollegeVine guide. These tools provide an easy-to-understand breakdown of the college admissions process. Remember, your school guidance counselor is also a great resource for both you and your parents. They're very experienced in explaining the college process to families. You can also look into local community programs or library events that are geared toward educating parents about the college application process!