The following article was contributed by our colleague and college financial advisor Donna Cournoyer
May 1, commonly known as National College Decision Day, marks the deadline for high school seniors across the U.S. to commit to the college they plan to attend in the fall. With multiple acceptance letters in hand, this decision can feel both exciting and overwhelming.
Here are some key considerations to help students and families make a confident choice.
1. Revisit Your Priorities
Start by reflecting on what matters most to you. Academic programs, campus culture, location, extracurricular opportunities, class sizes, and internship pipelines can all make a big impact on your college experience. While prestige and high rankings are nice, make sure the school aligns with your goals and values.
2. Compare Financial Aid Offers and Merit Scholarships Awarded
Cost is a major factor for many students. Lay out all the financial aid packages you’ve received, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study options. Calculate the net cost (not just the tuition sticker price) and consider long-term debt implications.
Merit scholarships (non-financial need funds) are especially important if you do not qualify for financial aid. If you are considering a school that does not offer merit scholarships, be sure to know the full price you will be responsible for.
Be sure to have a four-year financing plan in place, not just a way to “make it through paying for year one”.
3. Attend Accepted Student Events
Many colleges offer virtual or in-person events for admitted students during April. These are great opportunities to ask questions, meet future classmates, and get a real feel for the campus environment.
Have your questions ready and seek out those who can help to give you important information to help you make this decision.
4. Talk to Current Students and Alumni
Hearing honest perspectives from current students or recent graduates can offer insights you won’t find with college brochures and marketing materials. Those leading the tours are going to “sell” you on choosing their school, usually no matter the cost.
Be sure to ask about academic rigor, social life, career support, and anything else important to you.
5. Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, this is your decision. You might not have all the answers, and that’s okay. Consider where you felt the most comfortable, excited, or inspired. Your instinct can be a powerful guide.
Final Tip: Don’t Miss the Deadline
Once you’ve made your choice, be sure to submit your enrollment deposit by May 1 to secure your spot. Also, notify the schools you’re not attending so they can offer spots to wait-listed students.
Choosing a college is a milestone—and while it’s a big decision, it’s just the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Take a deep breath, weigh your options, and take the next step with confidence. By this time, you have put in the hard work both in high school and in your college search.
Finally, celebrate your decision. This is a major milestone! Enjoy the remainder of senior year and rest up this summer (maybe work to earn a few extra dollars) so that you are ready for move-in day this fall.
Additional Pointers for Parents
Right now, you are not alone. Many families across the country are working together to help their high school seniors make one of the most important decisions of their academic journey: choosing which college to attend. As a parent, your guidance, support, and perspective can play a vital role.
Here’s how you can help your student make a thoughtful, confident choice:
- Now is the time to remind your student about their priority list and to help them focus on where they will thrive. While attending a school of prestige has certain attractions, the reality is that most of the time, other schools on their list will offer everything your student needs to have a great career and make connections that will last a lifetime.
- Hopefully you have already had a conversation about finances. However, now is a good time to review with your student their financial responsibilities, including costs, loans, etc. It’s also important to discuss what you are willing to finance as their parent. Be sure it is a realistic plan and makes sense for all of you. If it is not a smart decision financially, it may be wise to consider another choice.
- Offer support, give guidance and perspective, but give your student space to use their own judgement. Your reassurance can go a long way to helping them feel confident and excited about the way forward.
Best of luck to students and parents in making the big decision!