The college application process can be exciting and overwhelming for students and parents alike. As the competition for college admission grows, it’s crucial to help your child stand out while ensuring they are prepared for the journey ahead. While students take the lead in their applications, parents can play a vital role in guiding and supporting them. In this guide, we’ll walk you through key steps to help your child prepare for college admissions with confidence.
Admission to top colleges has become even more competitive over the past decade. Here are some data points to illustrate the issue:
- Yale University received a record 57,465 applications, for instance—dwarfing its previous record of 52,250 by nearly 10 percent—and had an acceptance rate of 3.7 percent, its lowest ever, down from 4.5 percent last year.
- Some highly selective non-Ivy institutions also boasted record-low acceptance rates, including Williams College, Rice, and Duke Universities.
- Harvard’s acceptance rate, however, rose this year, from 3.34 to 3.59 percent, its first increase since 2020; at the same time, applications to the university fell by over 5 percent from last year.
(Source: Inside Higher Ed)
How To Help Your Child With College Admission Prep
1. Start Early: Laying the Foundation in High School
College preparation should not be left until senior year, but your younger high schooler may not be thinking about this. College prep starts as early as freshman year, especially for those students with big aspirations of attending Ivy-level colleges. As a parent, you can step in to guide and encourage your child to focus on building a strong academic record by taking challenging courses and maintaining good grades. Extracurricular activities, experiential learning, and community service can be just as important, helping students demonstrate leadership and passion beyond the classroom.
Tip: Along with your child, begin to file and track your child’s academic achievements, volunteer work, and leadership roles. This will make the application process smoother when it’s time to write resumes and personal statements.
2. Understand Standardized Testing Requirements
Most colleges still require SAT or ACT scores as part of the application process. A good first step is to research which test is best suited for your child, ensure they are prepared well in advance, and create a calendar of key dates for the PSAT. Taking practice exams and enrolling in test prep courses can significantly improve scores.
Tip: Many students benefit from taking these tests more than once. Identify early test dates that allow time for retakes if needed.
3. Build a College List
Help your child create a balanced list of colleges, including safety, target, and reach schools. You can help your child by creating a file or spreadsheet and guiding them through the research of pros, cons, costs, and specific admissions criteria for each school to ensure your child’s application aligns with their expectations.
Tip: Start visiting campuses as soon as possible and take advantage of virtual tours where available. Understanding the campus culture and environment can help your child choose a college that’s the right fit academically and socially.
4. Crafting a Standout Personal Statement
The personal statement or college essay is one of the most important components of the college application. It gives students the chance to showcase who they are beyond grades and test scores. Encourage your child to write a unique, heartfelt essay that highlights their strengths, passions, and experiences.
Tip: Have your child start drafting their essay early. Review it together, and encourage them to seek feedback from teachers or mentors for additional guidance.
5. Letters of Recommendation
It’s never soon to to start working on the letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors. These letters provide valuable insight into your child’s character, work ethic, and potential. Make sure your child requests recommendations from individuals who know them well and can speak positively about their abilities.
Tip: Encourage your child to ask for recommendations well before deadlines. Providing a resume or list of accomplishments can also help recommenders write detailed, thoughtful letters.
6. Stay on Top of Deadlines
One of the most stressful aspects of college admissions is keeping track of various deadlines for applications, financial aid, and scholarships. As a parent, you can help by creating a calendar with all important dates and reminders to ensure nothing is missed.
Tip: Many schools offer early decision or early action options. If your child has a top choice, applying early may increase their chances of acceptance.
7. Explore Financial Aid and Scholarships
College is a major financial investment, and many families rely on financial aid and scholarships to help cover costs. Assist your child in researching scholarships that match their profile and ensure that you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible.
Tip: There are many scholarship opportunities based on academic merit, leadership, volunteer work, and specific talents. Encourage your child to apply for as many as possible to maximize financial support.
8. Encourage a Growth Mindset
The college admissions process is competitive, and not every outcome will be favorable. Help your child understand that setbacks are part of the journey and that there are multiple paths to success. Encourage them to stay positive and keep an open mind about all the opportunities ahead.
Tip: Celebrate the effort your child puts into the process, regardless of the outcome. Remind them that rejection does not reflect their worth or potential.
As a parent, your guidance and encouragement can make a significant difference in your child’s college application experience. By starting early, staying organized, and providing emotional support, you’ll help them navigate the process with confidence and poise. With Envision’s project-based learning programs, students gain valuable skills and experiences that not only enhance their applications but prepare them for success in college and beyond.
Envision by WorldStrides is passionate about guiding students each step of the way as they rise to their highest potential through transformative experiences. Our programs offer hands-on experiences that allow high schoolers to test the waters of possible career tracks in: