Your student has submitted the Common App. Congratulations – it’s a big step! So, what’s next?
While it may feel like you have crossed the finish line, college planning is not over yet. In fact, some of the most important steps begin now.
Some of the decisions you’ll make in the months ahead will have a great impact on not just the next four years, but for years after your college student receives that well-earned diploma.
Below are key areas of focus for staying on track financially.
If You Have Not Started a Plan to Pay, Begin Now
- Make a list of your “likely schools” and their Cost of Attendance
- Use college cost online calculators to give you an idea of how much each school will cost after financial aid and merit scholarships. Schools are required to have a Net Price Calculator on their website.
- Use salary calculators to get an idea of what kind of salary you will make after graduation
- If you are going to use loans for any part of payment, do your research now and definitely consider the Federal Student Loansthat each student is eligible for
- Review parent college savings and assets intended to cover college costs and make a four-year cost estimate (remember costs increase an average of 5% per year)
Submit Your Financial Aid Forms
You likely have submitted the CSS Profile for your schools who require it by now (not all schools require this form).
Be sure to complete the FAFSA form (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) which is now open for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Plan Your Private Scholarship Search
There are many private scholarships available for students. A good place to begin this search is with your high school guidance office.
Search for local scholarships and use online tools. Be sure to never pay a fee, because legitimate scholarship websites do not charge a fee for application.
Here are a few websites to begin your private scholarship search:
Maintain Grades and Academic Focus
Colleges will be requesting final transcripts for review, so students should stay focused and keep grades up. Significant drops in grades could put college acceptance in jeopardy.
Consider Visiting or Revisiting Top Choice Schools
Since there are many factors that make a school the right fit (including if a student feels like they are at home on campus and with other students), make another visit, or be sure to visit if you haven’t already done so to decide if the college campus is right for your student.
Check out school resources, student activities, and even the geography and area of the school.
Take any opportunities to speak with students, faculty, advisors and department chairs.
Prepare for Acceptance Letters (and Possibly Rejection Letters)
In the coming weeks you will start to receive decision letters.
This is exciting! However, it can be stressful.
It is good to remember for your peace of mind that even if there are rejections, there is a school out there for your student where they will have a place to connect with peers and have the resources to succeed and enjoy the next four-year chapter of college life.
And Finally, Celebrate!
Over the coming weeks and months, especially during the holidays, you will likely have the opportunity to celebrate some acceptance decisions from your college list.
Be proud of this accomplishment and share with your family and friends. You (students and parents) have earned it!
-DC