College admissions is competitive,

First of all, discover which counselor will be responsible for you. You definitely need to visit with your guidance counselor so that when it comes time to write the counselor's letter of recommendation, the counselor actually has something specific to include in that letter. Request an appointment after winter holidays your junior year and then try to visit with the counselor again in the spring to discuss college ideas. Drop by the office to explore the college brochures or reference books that are likely available. Ask the counselor where he went to college or stop in to discuss your extracurricular resume. Greet the counselor in the hallway on the way to class.

I try to help them deal with their anxiety by giving them information, resources and tasks. My parent resources include books and articles about the college application process as well as links to blogs and web resources. I also ask them to organize the college visits with input from the student. I also patiently emphasize that the student must take personal and primary responsibility as they must feel that they own the process.

I am always a big proponent of going through the admissions office. There is never any harm in demonstrating interest in a school--and one way to do this is to send queries through the college admissions office. Ask the admissions officer responsible for your geographic area to put you in touch with alumni who reside close by to your town.

Visit, request and complete an interview if available, ask specific questions about programs or ask to be connected to a professor through the admissions office, ask to be connected to a student ambassador if possible. Show the school how interested you actually are.

It is definitely important to visit if you can and if you are in a radius of 150 miles I think you absolutely must visit. Before you go, try to set up a private appointment or an interview with the admission officer responsible for your geographic area. Demonstrated interest often (but not always) plays a role in the application process. Most importantly, if you visit a college you will have a first-hand impression of the school. Do you feel that you can be happy and successful there?

A carefully crafted college list should consist of around 9 schools. If you have done your research and have evaluated your high school record candidly, you should be able to create a list of 5 target schools, 2 likely schools and 2 dream schools.

If you mean U.S. citizens who live abroad as expats then I would say that you approach the application process as a U.S. citizen would. Then, illustrate your story in your essay. Transition is a different story--when you return to school in the U.S., you will most likely have a transition period similar to that of a purely international student.

All the schools on your final list should be options where you would be happy to attend college. Financing post-secondary studies (and most probably paying for some of it after you graduate) will affect your satisfaction with your studies as well. When a student creates his or her college list, I always recommend including a couple of financial safeties. By all means you should apply to your dream school, but don't forget to be pragmatic as well.

A well utilized and spent GAP year can be a wonderful opportunity for a student to mature and explore his/her options. However, before you are off on your year of exploration or social service or work experience or whatever your well-laid plans might be, apply to college. Yes, while you are still in high school and you have the support of your guidance counselor and the resources of the school at your disposal, apply to college. You can always request a deferment from your college of choice after you have been accepted--and you may decide that you want to take that GAP year at a later date and start college in the Fall after all.

Create a template for your college visits that you can complete as you go or while you are leaving the campus. Take lots of photos (including one with the name of the college appearing). Talk to students while visiting. Eat in the cafeteria. Check out the bookstore. Look at the events on the bulletin boards. Go by the career and counseling office and see if there are internships on offer. Ask about support services--peer tutoring for example or a writing lab. Notice if the physical plant is in good condition. Ask about safety measures--is there a blue light system, are there special arrangements for late at night?

What activities are taking place on the upcoming weekend? Which organizations have flyers on the bulletin board? Is social justice important? Is environmentalism prevalent? Is the social life centered around one type of association? Do you feel comfortable on campus? How is the food? Is there a lot to do on the weekends or do people go home? Do students and faculty meet outside of class?

Work hard to get strong grades as they will be provided by your high school to colleges both via the mid-year report (added to your application files) and via the required final transcript. Write your essays ahead of time so that you can revise them. Choose your recommenders carefully and ask politely for the recommendations way in advance of deadlines.

Often they wish they had learned executive management competencies: how to organize, study skills, time management and prioritizing. All of these skills are essential to handling your new responsibilities as no one will be looking over your shoulder to make sure you finished your papers and projects OR getting you up in time for that 9am class.

cannot really replace the college tour but you can still find out a lot of information without stepping foot on campus. Get to know the website and dig deep into it--look at courses offered and notice which student organizations have events on the campus calendar. Is there a student newspaper accessible online? How about a campus radio station? Are there student ambassadors available to speak with throughout the admissions office?

Need-blind means that the admissions office will absolutely not consider your ability to finance your education when deciding whether or not to offer you admission. Need sensitive means that your family's ability to pay for your education will be a factor in the admissions process.

The best way to find out is to visit the school and try to talk to as many current students as possible. Read their college newspaper and listen to their college radio station. Peruse the billboards. Eavesdrop on the conversations in the coffeehouse or the cafeteria. Check out the statistics at the NSSE (National Survey of Student Engagement) website.

Visit colleges. Read books. Get a job. Take a pre-college class at a college campus. Finalize your college list. Start on your essays. Volunteer. Get an internship. Begin the Common Application which becomes available on August 1. Relax a little before school starts...

You should try to take a well regarded class either at a local college or from a respected online resource. There are many pre-ollege courses offered online that will demonstrate your ability and commitment to succeed in college. Ask your guidance counselor for assistance in locating these opportunities.

colleges are in session. You can sit-in on a class, have lunch in the college cafeteria, meet a few students and really get a feeling for the campus culture. Many schools offer an overnight visit opportunity to seniors.

Thinking about college should begin way before high school in order to get in the college preparation courses. College visits can begin during family trips during sophomore year (so that you remember your impressions of the campus). Ideally, you should take the PSAT or PLAN as well during your Sophomore year. Trying to figure out what you require from a college should begin in earnest your Junior year and the research into colleges should go in depth during Junior year. When you walk into your high school in the Fall of your Senior year, it would be great if you have your college list lined up even if you still need time to finalize it.

The first step is self-knowledge. Have you thought about your learning style, your academic abilities, your career orientation, your preferences for academic/social balance, your financial needs, geographic preferences? Have you visited any local colleges or universities to discover what you like and dislike about their size, campus culture, rural or urban location or any of the myriad other aspects of a college campus? You should begin with these basics and then start to explore college options.

Probably not your best friend. Choosing a college is such a personal decision. It is best to experience a campus' culture without your high school buddy. After all, chance are slim that you will be attending the same school next year! College Visits are also a time when your parents can be really helpful--leave the coordination of the trip up to them. You take care of the exploration!

Doing absolutely the best work you can manage in your courses at school. Taking the PSAT or PLAN in the fall of junior year and then the SAT or ACT in the Spring. Beginning to explore colleges and then creating your college list. Working on your essays before the start of school your senior year. Visiting colleges in the spring and summer. Developing depth in your interests outside of school. And again, working hard and getting great grades in your classes!

Does the school have an online college newspaper? Read it. Is there a printed newspaper? Subscribe to it. Is there a college radio station? Listen to it. Can you go on a virtual college visit? Start with the college's website and then look for other sources as well. How can you demonstrate your interest without visiting? Contact admissions and ask insightful questions about specific programs. Ask admissions if you can email a student ambassador.

Misspelling your own name (or using a nickname) on documents. Wrongly entered email address. Loosing usernames and passwords. Forgetting to request that your entrance exam scores (SAT or ACT) are officially sent to each college that requires the scores. Not following directions. Missing the application deadlines!

Think of college rankings as yet another tool in your college application toolbox. They are useful but not all-encompassing. Most college counselors would like to ignore them all together but we understand that they are ubiquitous. Look at the rankings and then set them aside and start to research colleges for yourself.

Strong grades in a rigorous college preparatory curriculum. After these first major academic requirements, then it depends on the mission and needs of each college. Certain schools may use the SAT scores in considering candidates, other schools are test-optional. Some schools weigh extracurricular interests and leadership potential more heavily than recommendations and essays. For other colleges, the essay plays an important role. Some admission offices utilize the evaluations from interviews while others consider the interviews to be informative rather than evaluative. Each admissions office has its own mandate and requirements.

Each college or university has its own institutional mandate. Those schools that require more information to make admissions decisions, ask for those details in the institutional supplement.

You should complete the best application you can for each school. You do need to demonstrate why you would be an asset to that particular college or university. If you are asked the "WHY do you want to attend this school" question on a supplement, you should be able to answer with specific instances.

Absolutely--through institutional applications, the Common Application and the Universal Application to name the most prevalent options.

I think that they actually prefer paperless applications for the greater ease in handling the immense amount of information ending up at the Admissions Office. However, you will not be penalized for completing paper applications.

Research the admissions page of the college's website. Most admissions officers do not want supplemental materials--they are having a difficult time filing all of the required bits of information in any case. Of course, in some cases (such as the arts supplement) certain materials may be required such as a portfolio or a CD. Follow the directions always. If you have a specific question, then contact the admissions officer responsible for your area by email and they will be happy to answer your questions.

Submitting your application early may help you to get in line for an interview. Interviews are useful whether they are informative or evaluative, not only as an opportunity for you to learn about the college, but also in demonstrating your interest in a specific college. Check the websites of the colleges on your list to learn how interviews are arranged--the invitation may be triggered by submitting your application or the institutional supplement.

Not using your own voice in your essay: College admissions officers are experienced professionals -- and they read hundreds of essays every application season. They are intimately familiar with the writings of high school students.

Grammar mistakes and misspelling: Please proofread your essay and application--and do not depend on spellcheck.

Follow the directions: Did you answer the question? Readers have no sympathy for you if you cannot follow simple directions.

This is one of those times when you need to go directly to the admissions page of the college's website. Research to find out if supplemental material is encouraged or discouraged and follow the directions. Admissions officers dislike it when students disregard clearly stated instructions. If there is no specific advice and you really cannot fit the information in the allotted areas on the application, then you can upload the resume in the additional information section. Always use a print preview to make sure everything had been uploaded correctly.

This standardized application form is accepted by more than 450 colleges and universities (including a handful of international schools). It is convenient because you enter your main details (including family information, educational information, extracurricular activities and a couple of essays) only once. Many colleges do require a college specific supplementary form in addition to the main form.

A "hook" is another aspect of your admissions file which could be an extra incentive to the admissions office to send you the acceptance letter. Depending on the requirements and priorities of the college, such qualities could include but are not limited to talents such as athletics or music to legacies to development admits to diversity.

The Universal College Application is an online college application for a group of approximately 60 colleges and universities. See the website for a list os participating colleges. Some schools also require an institutional supplement.

Definitely your Grade Point Average in the core classes and the rigor of the curriculum. Admissions officers want to see that you took the most difficult college preparatory classes offered by your high school and that you did well in those courses. If your high school does not offer such courses, then try to take supplemental classes at a local college. The other aspects of the application are all important, but colleges give different weights to different aspects depending on the school's mission.

Make sure you have chosen a teacher who will definitely have positive comments and who is willing to write the letter. It is important that this is a teacher of one of the core subjects--mathematics, English, science, foreign language or humanities-- from the last two years of high school. It would be preferable to choose a teacher of a subject that relates to your interests. Try to remind him or her of an instance in the classroom where your potential was on display. Also, make sure that you ask the teacher before he is inundated with similar requests.

If you are proactive, you can create a recommendation request letter to give to your selected teachers. For each, you could include a particular event or project or accomplishment that you want the teacher to remember and that might remind the teacher of some of your interesting or exceptional qualities that she could comment on in the letter.

The best way for speeding up the process is to get in the queue early. If you are asking a popular teacher for a recommendation then you need to make certain you are not only asking for it in plenty of time but that you are one of the first to do so.

NACAC (National Association for College Admissions Professionals) has an Application Fee Waiver form available on its website. This is for students with limited financial resources and the restrictions and instructions on how to use the waiver are clearly listed.

The federal FA formula protects some parental assets such as retirement funds (for example 401(k)s or IRAs, the home equity in the primary residence or a family farm). Some colleges require a secondary financial aid form (the CSS Profile) which has a different methodology from the federal methodology. Certain colleges also might have their own institutional forms. Each methodology varies in its assessment of family assets. Research each college's requirements carefully through the Financial Aid section of the website and do not hesitate to contact the financial aid officer at a college with specific questions. Follow instructions carefully.

Theoretically, primarily the custodial parent. However, many colleges strongly believe that both parents share responsibility for the cost of educating their child and that it is necessary to examine the resources of both the custodial and non-custodial parents (and the step-parents if there has been a remarriage on either side). The required documents are confidential and should not be shared with the other parties. You can speak to each financial aid office separately to clarify how required contributions are assessed, or if you have questions regarding confidentiality.

529 Plans which are in the grandparents' names are not included when assessing a family's EFC (Expected Financial Contribution). Perhaps your grandparents would be interested in opening such an account to help you pay for college.

For both custodial and non-custodial parents, the step-parent's financial information is considered. If you are requested to provide information as a stipulation to receiving institutional financial aid, you must provide it in a timely manner in order to avoid losing your opportunity to receive possible aid.

You should definitely speak with your college's study abroad advisory and your financial aid officer regarding approved study abroad programs. Aside from components of your regular FA package (and again check with your college), if you receive the federal Pell Grant, you can apply for the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. Another option might be the David L. Boren Undergraduate Scholarship for Study Abroad which is administered by the National Security Education Program and is for study abroad in certain countries considered to be important to U.S. national security. Check with your college to learn how the institutional financial aid might be affected and to check on whether there are any particular scholarships available for study abroad. Start early on this process so that you have time to apply for special programs or scholarships. Pay attention to deadlines!

Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Realistically, the students accepted off the wait list are at the end of the financial aid line. Most of the available institutional money will have been dispersed by that point in time. However, if your college has a strong endowment, you might be surprised!

Depending on your family's financial situation, you may be eligible for a federally funded work-study job, grants (federal, state or institutional), need or merit-based scholarships (federal, state, institutional or general), subsidized or unsubsidized federal loans, and possible tax credits.

The most common mistake is missing deadlines. Other mistakes could be as simple as misspelling a name, mis-entering a social security number, omitting requested information or even entering different amounts for income or savings on different aid application forms. Be consistent and honest and make sure you proofread for errors!

Approach the Financial Aid office with documented proof demonstrating the changed circumstance. If you do not know what constitutes proof, make an appointment with a financial aid officer and ask what paperwork they would require to be able to use their professional judgment in your case.

Apply! You can only receive federal financial aid if you complete and send your application forms. Every year eligible students neglect to do their paperwork. Meet deadlines! Missed deadlines are the major mistake students make when applying for financial aid. Federal, state and institutional deadlines are all important.

It is a campus-based federal program reserved for students with demonstrated need. Usually the hours allowed are between 10-15 hours per week. There are two major benefits to this program. As a work-study employee, your salary will be subsidized by the federal government--you will be eligible for various campus jobs including working for professors in research projects. Most importantly, earnings from Work-Study do not count against your eligibility when you fill out the next year's FAFSA.

Do not assume that the non-custodial form requirements will be waived. If you cannot get the required financial information from the non-custodial parent, contact the financial aid office of each college and ask for special consideration. Be prepared to provide documentation about your situation as well as written letters from a third party (such as a social worker, minster or guidance counselor) with personal knowledge of your circumstances.

Note the FREE. Make certain that you access the federal government's website at www.fafsa.gov. If you are being asked for money to fill in the form then you are on the wrong website. This is the application form for U.S. federal government aid (grants, subsidized and unsubsidized loans and work-study approval). It becomes available on January 1st each year but you can prepare for the form by using the FAFSA4caster ahead of time. You must file this form for each year you require federal F.A.

Every tutor I have spoken to has stated that the best way to prepare is through practice. Sign up for the free questions of the day. Purchase a prep book. Take as many exams as possible under test-taking conditions. All of these strategies are cost-conscious ways to prepare for the test and they are effective methods but you have to really be self-motivated. If you know that you will not study then considered taking a prep course.

but definitely better. All the test perp gurus who I have spoken to have stated that the best way to practice for these standardized entrance exams is to take the tests under testing conditions as many times as possible. I am also a huge fan of the free questions of the day offered by both Collegeboard and the ACT.

Just like written essays, these require a lot of thought and planning--developing an idea, a script, filming and then editing and perhaps choosing or creating a musical score to accompany the essay. For some students, this opportunity can be really fun and challenging and provide a welcome relief from the stress of the application. For others, it simply adds to the stress. Choose wisely where you want to spend the time.

Do write in the active person. Do use your own voice. Do start early. Do brainstorm. Do show your English teacher. Do proofread. Do write about something you know. Do take advantage of the opportunity. Do your own work. Don't write about romantic relationships. Don't use profanity. Don't brag. Don't let someone else overly influence your writing. Don't over-analyze. Don't plagiarize. Don't do it last minute!

The extracurricular short answer should be related to one of your top activities. The main essay is usually flexible. If you are very passionate about a particular academic area then it would be a great idea to write about an important aspect or inspiration related to your enthusiasm for the subject. However, you can also use the essay to display another aspect of your interests or personality. The most important point is to use this chance to give vibrancy to that admission file filled with statistics--GPA, test scores and recitations of activities and academic achievements.

It depends on the priorities of the school. Many schools have a strong commitment to a holistic review of each application and sometimes have two or three readers for each file. A really good essay can be a strong addition to the application file. Other schools might be so overwhelmed by the sheer number of applications that they make their admit decisions based strictly on statistical requirements. You can often find out how a file is reviewed by attending an information session at the schools on your college list.

Yes, in fact I suggest that you have someone proofread it. Proofreading means to search your writing for errors--typographical, grammatical and spelling mistakes.

My preference (and admissions officers') would be that parents are minimally involved in the essay. Believe me, those admissions officers are experienced and they can definitely spot the difference between a 50 year-old businessperson's phraseology and a 17-year-old senior's own voice and manner of expression.

This really depends on the college and how they consider each portion of the application. Each college has its own priorities. The essay usually plays a larger role in the application process at schools who can spend more time on each applicant's file. For instance, a large public university may not have the resources to devote to closely reading the essay portion of the application. The essay usually is in the top ten aspects taken under consideration in a holistic reading of an application.

A great college essay is an essay that is interesting, pithy and well written. You want both to keep the reader's attention and to make the reader want you to be a member of the next freshman class at the reader's college. Write actively about something you know well. This is your chance to make your application stand out and your one opportunity to have a real voice appear in the file. Tell the reader something about yourself that might not be included in the rest of the application.

You may be able to intern in an interesting position that would have been impossible to qualify for had it been a paid job. Since you will not be paid, it will not affect your application for financial aid the next year. Even though a internship may be unpaid, you will gain professional skills that will help you in your first post-college position.

Visit your college's career and counseling office to get leads on possible internships in your field--both during the school year and during summertime. Establish relationships with your professors who have contacts in the field and who may be willing to recommend you for internships with their colleagues.

Search for internships in your field of study and use those internships to explore the professional possibilities in your area of interest. You will create a more rewarding experience if you are determined to work hard and take responsibility. Even if an internship choice was not ideal, you may still come away with new professional connections to add to your growing network and one or two mentors who may refer you to another internship in a related field.

Aside from increasing your marketability for employment and perhaps admission to graduate school, you will have the chance to learn first-hand about potential careers without a long-term commitment. In addition, if you choose your internship experience carefully, you should be able to build a network of contacts and mentors who may serve as professional references.

Be enthusiastic and informed when you go to your interview. Dress well in comfortable clothes -- no distressed slouchy pants with hoodies. Research the college and have a few intelligent questions prepared. Look at the interviewer directly and offer your hand. Take your resume with you and hand it to the interviewer. Send a thank you note afterwards.

You should contact the college admissions office via email and ask to be interviewed. Sometimes this will take place before you actually send the application to the school, sometimes it will take place afterwards. If possible, try to have the interview with an admissions officer at the school but if it is not possible, you may be able to have one on Skype. Some schools also conduct interviews locally using their alumni network. The interview is your chance to demonstrate interest in attending the school and to provide a personal perspective to your application file. You will meet (either face-to-face or virtually) with your interviewer and be asked various questions about your interests and activities and why you want to attend the school. in turn, you should have a chance to ask questions about the college.

Who will your interviewer be? This depends on the mandate and the manpower of the college. It may be an admissions officer and I strongly suggest you try to arrange an interview either at the admissions office during your college visit or with an officer visiting your high school if possible. Some schools simply do not offer interviews with their admissions officers and depend on alumni interviewers. Some of the interviewers have been well trained and are very experienced and some may be new volunteers. A few schools even have student interviewers--usually for informative interviews. Often you can find out information on the interviews from the admissions page of the college website.

You should always treat the interview as if it does count. Sometimes interviews are simply informative and sometimes they are evaluative. Take the opportunity to introduce yourself, to demonstrate your interest and to learn more about the college. At the least, this will be good practice for a later internship or job interview. At the most, the evaluation could help you when your file is being read in the admissions office.

It is possible but usually these would be considered informational interviews rather than evaluative interviews. This would be a good opportunity for you to find out more about the college. As before any interview, make sure that you have researched the university thoroughly and that you have a list of intelligent questions to ask the interviewer about the school.

When you go to an interview, take your resume with you. The interviewer will appreciate having notes to refer to during and after the meeting. Prepare a few specific questions about traditions or programs at the school. This will show that you are familiar with the college and will give you the opportunity to learn more. Interviews should be informative as well as evaluative.

Discuss your favorite class or teacher. Talk about how you enjoy spending your time outside of your studies. Have you read an interesting article or book that you can discuss intelligently with the interviewer? What is your favorite extracurricular activity and why do you enjoy it so much? Don't be arrogant--be interesting and interested. As the interviewer about himself as well.

Do not ask IF the interviewer likes the school. Obviously they do, otherwise they wouldn't be either working for the school or giving up their time to interview you on behalf of the college. Do not compare the school to another one--concentrate on talking about what interests you at the college and how you can add to the campus. Do not talk about your latest romantic entanglements or the last party you went to. Keep everything on a friendly, "professional" level.

The more opportunities you have to be interviewed, the more comfortable you should become with the process. Interviewers are attempting you evaluate you as a person--are you someone they would like to spend time with on campus or in an office and how will you add to that college or place of employment. If you have the chance to have a "mock" or practice interview--take it!

Oh yes, but if you are asking this question, you already know the answer. This is your chance to make a good impression. If you are slouching in the chair and hiding inside your hoody then you are not making a very good one! Look the interviewer directly in the eyes when you are introducing yourself and offer your hand. Speak clearly and confidentially and show that you are interested in the conversation (and not there because your parents made you go.) Thank her for meeting with you and giving up her afternoon (or morning).

Just like other questions about the best colleges, you need to determine what your requirements are in deciding which are the best programs for you personally. Look at the faculty (training, teaching styles and affiliations). Where are the alumni working? Are they dancing professionally? Are they teaching and if so, where? Research and learn about performance opportunities. What are the audition requirements for the ballet program? Who were the guest artists in recent years? Look at the course offerings and become familiar with the requirements. Finally, visit the campus. Can you arrange to participate in a ballet class or at least observe one? Connect with and speak to current dance majors.

Just like other questions about the best colleges, you need to determine what your requirements are in deciding which are the best programs for you personally. Look at the faculty (training, teaching styles and affiliations). Where are the alumni working? Are they dancing professionally? Are they teaching and if so, where? Research and learn about performance opportunities. What are the audition requirements for the ballet program? Who were the guest artists in recent years? Look at the course offerings and become familiar with the requirements. Finally, visit the campus. Can you arrange to participate in a ballet class or at least observe one? Connect with and speak to current dance majors.

The Strategic National Arts Alumni Project (SNAAP) published a study this year entitled "Forks in the Road: The Many Paths of Arts Alumni". This is highly recommended reading for students considering studying either performing or visual arts at the post-secondary level who are wondering about their career options. Definitely, arts students need to be pro-active and take courses in business and management skills in order to prepare for an entrepreneurial and enterprising career. Some occupations for performing artists might be actors, dancers, choreographers, directors, producers or managers in theater and stage, film, TV or video artists, musicians, teachers, arts administrators and arts educators. Training in the arts is also valuable to a range of other careers because it teaches skills that are highly regarded in the workplace such as writing persuasively, thinking critically, working well with groups, and speaking effectively and clearly.

Yes, it is possible that what you post online in social media can affect your chances of getting accepted and can even cause an offer of acceptance to be withdrawn. Here is the golden rule: never post anything on Facebook or any other space that you would be embarrassed for your grandmother to see or read!

Yes, I would say that it has. A prospective student may be able to follow a college's posts on Facebook and sometimes on twitter. Many colleges also connect through student blogs. Make sure you keep your own social media accounts squeaky clean. Do not post anything that you would be ashamed for your grandmother to see or read!

Final grades (failing classes or not keeping the standards that were indicated on your application), falsifying application information, disciplinary infractions, and double depositing have all been behaviors cited by public and private colleges as reasons for revoking offers of admission. Keep working hard through senior year and it will pay off for you when you enter college as a freshman.

If you want to go to a college where the students are happy with their school, then one good signal are these retention rates. The freshman retention rate is simply the percentage of freshman that return to campus sophomore year. The rate matters because it is an indication of the student satisfaction with the school. The higher the rate, the greater success the school has had with its students.

First of all--congratulations! If possible, visit all the colleges now as an accepted student. You will have a different perspective now that you have been admitted. Look at the required financial commitment for each school and compare and contrast the packages--make sure you are comparing apples to apples and not to oranges.

You need to have some self-knowledge to figure this one out. I know some students who live on campus at a college close to home who rarely see their parents, and others who feel the need to drive home often to have a home-cooked meal or do laundry. You may decide to live at home in order to save on the room and board costs. Or, it may be that you will receive a better financial aid package if you move out of your geographical area and bring some much needed geographical diversity to a campus further away. This will be one of the many considerations as you are looking at schools.

A successful student is a happy student and you need to invest some thought in the factors that will help you to succeed at college. As you research colleges you should think about factors as diverse as academic fit, geographic and cultural aspects, ease in traveling to the campus, financial requirements, typical class size, student/faculty ratio and campus culture.

Make arrangements before you visit the campus. You should make an appointment with the admissions officer responsible for your geographic area if possible and have an interview if you are a rising senior. If an interview is not available, attend the information session, the college tour and register your interest in the college. Try to arrange to attend a class while on campus and you will have a real sense of the possibilities that await you at the school.

Try to start the college dialogue early and help your teenager focus on a few of the important aspects of college research. Initially visit a few campuses to help him/her get a sense of what type of campus feels most comfortable. Assist your aspiring college student to get organized and you will be lessening the stress involved in the process. Borrow or buy a few college research books and leave them lying around the house. Point them towards one or two reputable websites where they can begin to explore.

Students should absolutely be the primary movers in the process. Whenever a family wants to contact a college, I suggest that the contact is initiated by the student. The student should demonstrate his/her maturity as well as his interest in a particular school by being responsible for the process. Parents should be aware that too much interference might reflect badly on their son/daughter at this stage, whereas the demonstration of independence could help the student's candidacy.

First of all, bring your son or daughter into the conversation about financing college. Set realistic expectations. Understand that many private colleges may be able to provide need-based or merit-based scholarships and that it is worth it to apply to both public and private schools. Make sure that a "financial safety" is included on the final college list. When the acceptances have arrived, carefully analyze the financial aid packages and compare and contrast the various types of aid offered. Do not take out private loans without carefully considering the terms of repayment.

The Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act applies to all schools that receive funding from the U.S. Department of Education. Essentially, this law gives parents certain rights in regard to their children's education. These rights transfer over the student once the student reaches the majority age of 18 or attends a post-secondary school. In order for parents to receive the education records of a college student, the student must authorize the parents to receive the information in writing.

I always like to give parents a supportive role in the process. Mom and Dad can help to keep the process organized. You are also essential for helping with the college visits--those road trips can be prime family time if they are well thought out with fun activities included to alleviate stress. You can be the official photographer (too many colleges in too few days tend to run together) but stay in the background when it comes to asking questions during the information sessions. Remember that the student should be invested in the process!

Take photos so that after the trip, your family will have visual guides. Take notes during the information session as you used to do in classroom lectures. Take your kid to lunch on campus--not only will you get a better sense of the campus culture but you will be able to check out the food. If your child has any disabilities make sure you have an appointment at the DSS office to find out what types of accommodations and services are available. Look around for the safety precautions--is there a blue light system? Let the student take the lead--he/she is the one who needs to understand if this school is a good fit. Don't forget to fit in a few fun side trips for everyone to blow off steam.

you, the parent. Or, at least it should. This is the first step to the transition away from home to an independent life. You need to help, you need to guide and you need to keep open lines of communication. Your teenager wants to be independent but also needs the comfort and advice of his family.

Try to help with keeping the process organized. Make a master calendar or ask your guidance counselor for one and keep it posted on the refrigerator so that no major deadlines are missed. Assist with organizing the college visits and then drive there. Try to establish realistic expectations. Keep communications open. Recognize that you might have different goals or expectations and try to discuss these ideas openly.

Show your parents that you have the college application process under control. Be organized. Make your deadlines. If your parents can see that you can handle the many aspects of the college application process, they may give you more space and relax a little. This will cause you less anxiety. Try not to shut them out of the process. Open up the lines of communication. Try to show your parents that you respect their opinions. If your parents know that you are willing to speak with them and if they know what stage you are at in the applications and what you are thinking, you will find that the atmosphere at home will become much more relaxed.

The types of financing are as follows: Savings, Jobs, Work-Study, Grants, Scholarships from federal sources, Scholarships from institutional sources, Scholarships from corporations or private organizations, Federal Loans (Perkins, Stafford and Parent Plus) and Private Loans. Make certain that you file your FAFSA online in January. Help your student research possible scholarships. Be aware of loan options.

While you are waiting for news, f you receive any substantial awards or there is a major improvement in your classwork or other interesting new circumstance, you can request that your guidance counselor contacts the admissions officer responsible for your geographic area. If you are wait listed, you should contact the admissions officer with a polite and enthusiastic note explaining why you believe that particular school is a good match for you and showing how you would positively impact the campus.

If your first choice college has wait listed you, you need to write the admissions office a letter and state that you definitely want to stay on the wait list. If you will attend the school if you are given the opportunity, you should say so very clearly. If you think that you will be a good addition to the campus, then explain why. If there are new achievements that you have managed during the spring of your senior year, then you should mention them. This is your last chance to add another dimension to your application. After you have sent the letter, then relax and start to discover the great things about your second choice school--and do not forget to make the deposit at that school! If you do move off the wait list then do not forget the inform the school to which you have already given your deposit that you will not be matriculating there. This will allow one of your peers to move off of that school's wait list to take your spot!

If your first choice college has wait listed you, you need to write the admissions office a letter and state that you definitely want to stay on the wait list. If you will attend the school if you are given the opportunity, you should say so very clearly. If you think that you will be a good addition to the campus, then explain why. If there are new achievements that you have managed during the spring of your senior year, then you should mention them. This is your last chance to add another dimension to your application. After you have sent the letter, then relax and start to discover the great things about your second choice school--and do not forget to make the deposit at that school! If you do move off the wait list then do not forget the inform the school to which you have already given your deposit that you will not be matriculating there. This will allow one of your peers to move off of that school's wait list to take your spot!

Think about your requirements for a college experience and reevaluate the two colleges that you are considering attending. Examine the costs of attendance and carefully compare the financial aid packages. What kinds of special opportunities exist at each school? Have you visited both colleges? Look at your notes. This is your decision but it might help to discuss your options with your family or a trusted friend.

If possible, take the time to visit the colleges to which you were accepted before the May 1st deadline. Many schools have special programs in the Spring for accepted students. At least try to visit on your own before deciding where to give your deposit. After visiting the schools and getting a feel for the campus cultures, you will probably feel that one of these "back-up" choices is actually a great fit!

Forget that it is your second choice and dive right into the campus--academics and activities. Soon you probably will not even remember that you ever wanted to go to a different school! Always be mindful that your college experience will be what you make of it and take control of your future.

First of all, this is a big decision and it is not one to take lightly. Let's start with why someone might think about transferring. A student might find it financially smart to spend the first two years of post-secondary education at a community college and then transfer to another four-year institution. This requires shrewd choices, hard work and guidance from advisors, but the combination can save you a bundle on the tuition bill. A student might simply be unhappy at their first university. A student's desired major might not be available at his first school. In all cases, you should research the new target school's website carefully--there should be a page outlining the requirements for a transfer application. Also, do not be shy to contact the admission officer responsible for transfers in order to ask specific questions. Be aware that all of your classes might not be accepted by the transfer school, that financial aid might be limited and that there may be limited orientation opportunities for transfer students.

A carefully crafted college list should consist of around 9 schools. If you have done your research and have evaluated your high school record candidly, you should be able to create a list of 5 target schools, 2 likely schools and 2 dream schools.

Applying early decision demonstrates your commitment and interest in that school and this is an important message for any applicant (international or American) to send to the admissions office. The decision to apply early should only be made if you are certain that this college is your first choice. This is a major decision on your part--are you ready? Is financial aid a necessity for you to be able to attend? You won't have the opportunity to compare and contrast FA packages. If you are committed to the school, then go ahead and apply.

We suggest that students take the TOEFL as it is very easy to find the minimum required score--either on the college's website on the international admissions page or at www.toeflgoanywhere.org/asu-advanced-search .

Ideally you should take it one time and try to score above a 100 for the most competitive schools. There is no limit to the number of times you can take it but you will pay the fee for each sitting.

Seniors attending high school in the United States who are non-native speakers might be eligible for a one-time reduced fee depending on their demonstrated need. This does not count for foreign exchange students. Go to the TOEFL site for details.

The same way any other student needs to write--authentically. This is your chance to let your own voice shine through and to liven up your application. Those admissions officers want to feel that they are learning something about how you will contribute to the new freshman class at their school. Don't forget to proofread your essays!

Interviews are an excellent way to demonstrate your interest in a particular school. Admissions offices realize that it may be difficult for an international prospective student to travel to the campus for an interview. You should contact the international admissions officer for your location via email and ask if it is possible to arrange an interview via Skype. Another possibility may be with the local alumni network. Again, these arrangements are made through the admissions office.

Well, if you need it then you should apply for it now. You won't have the option later unless you can prove that your financial situation has changed. You also will be required to file a Certificate of Finances in order to receive the paperwork for the student visa application. Please note that international FA is limited at the vast majority of schools and unless the school is committed to a need-blind policy for international students, requesting FA may affect your admittance.

Well, one of the brilliant aspects of studying in the U.S. is that you do not have to declare your major at the beginning of your studies (engineering is one of the exceptions). If you are interested in the liberal arts model of education then you will have time to explore and learn about various areas in the humanities. You should be assigned an advisor--and if you are not then you can visit the career center at your college or university for guidance. If there is a major that appeals to you then, by all means, indicate this choice on your application. At the majority of colleges, students change their chosen course of study a few times before their sophomore year ends.

Basically, U.S. federal and state funding is not available for undergraduate studies to a foreign national. Depending on the school, institutional need-based or merit scholarships may be available but these limited resources are often highly competitive. Other sources of funding might be found in your home country. There are free scholarship databases available on-line. Be careful to protect yourself from scholarship scams.

Basically using the same academic criteria as for U.S. citizens and residents. In all cases, the primary consideration is the GPA and the rigor of the high school courses. High schools usually send a school profile along with the required student transcript and report. There is also an international supplement required from the high school counselor. Transcripts and recommendations as well as any other supporting materials need to be officially translated into English. There are also transcript evaluation companies whose services may be required on occasion--check with the admissions department of each college on your list.

Colleges do not deny admission based on a disability. Disclosing the disability can help if there are aspects of the academic record which need to be explained. If the student decides to disclose, he should use the opportunity to show the ability of self-advocacy and self-knowledge.

I highly recommend Marybeth Kravets and Imy F. Wax's book "The K & W Guide to Colleges for Students with Learning Disabilities or Attention Deficit Disorder" which includes information of the level of services provided to students with learning disabilities.

I recommend that the student visits the DSS office as part of each college visit. Call ahead of time and make an appointment with the support staff. You should see how active the office is, what types of accommodation are offered and the facilities available. Among other questions, you should ask if special application is required, what auxiliary testing is required and if there are extra fees charged for the special programs as well as what accommodations and services are available.

Students with documented disabilities can request extended time but the must follow the requirements posted on the Collegeboard site. The student must be able to demonstrate with accepted documentation not only that the student has a disability but that he/she requires the requested accommodation. Be certain to start the request process early as processing takes approximately 7 weeks after all the information has been provided to Collegeboard.

The National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) is a wonderful resource to utilize when evaluating colleges. The college student report evaluates how students spend their time academically and what they are gaining from the collegiate experience. Many colleges and universities include the results of the survey on the official institutional website. Another interesting statistic is the four-year graduation rate which can be found on the U.S. Department of Education site for the National Center for Education Statistics.