This is question we get a lot and the answer can be broken down into three easy chunks:

1. Make sure your daughter puts together a list of schools that fit her. College admissions professionals know what they’re doing. They want a fit for their culture, their academic offerings, their long-term strategic goals (think long term engagement with their students). If those puzzle pieces don’t fit, there is an increased likelihood that students will not complete their degree, ie. they will transfer out and that’s lost revenue and lower retention rates. It’s not good for PR and fundraising. When there is a good fit and they see your daughter as an attractive candidate they will offer financial assistance if needed. Of course, the more academically competitive they are for the school, the more merit aid they should offer her. Every year the financial aid scenario for each school changes.  Some schools go from very generous with financial aid, to not generous at all.  Stay informed!

2. Your son must tell their story clearly and authentically in the application. Don’t simply throw down everything they’ve done over their high school career; admissions aren’t looking for a laundry list of items, they’re looking for clues as to who the applicant is at the core.  Here are some personality traits they love:  curious, kind, open, flexible, diligent, passionate.  Everyone has at least one of these in her personality. Pick one and talk about it.

3. Maximize revenue streams offered:

• Be organized and diligent in uncovering scholarships offered by the schools and make sure you meet the deadlines.
• Fill out the FASFA and CSS Profile as soon as they post in October of their senior year. Invest in a professional to help you do this correctly and early if you are not certain. This can be difficult in two parent family situations, so seek guidance. (Ask us for recommendations)
• Ask your high school guidance counselor for a list of local (usually small) scholarships available through local or regional companies.

For large schools it’s all about the numbers, so make sure your daughter’s SAT/ACT scores are as strong as possible.