As the summer months roll in and your student takes a break from school, it’s the perfect time for parents to start thinking about the future, especially when it comes to college planning. While it may feel like there’s plenty of time to figure things out, getting ahead now can make a big difference later. I’ve seen how early preparation can help families make more informed decisions. Not only that, but it helps to reduce the stress that often comes with college applications and financial aid.
Here are some key steps you can take this summer to set your child up for success:
Start the Financial Aid Conversation Early
It’s never too soon to begin talking about how your family plans to pay for college. Have a candid discussion about your family’s financial situation. Talk about what’s realistic, what can be saved, and how you plan to contribute. Understanding these factors early will help your child make more informed decisions about financial aid. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) now can help ensure a smooth application process later on.
Research Scholarships
Many scholarships are available to students as early as 9th or 10th grade, so starting the search now can give your child an advantage. Encourage your child to keep a running list of scholarship opportunities—tracking deadlines, requirements, and eligibility—so they’re ready when it’s time to apply.
Get Organized
The summer is a great time to get organized. Help your child set up a system to track what would be a part of applications. This includes their achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and any part-time jobs or internships. Having this information ready when it’s time to apply for scholarships or college admissions will make the process much smoother. Consider creating a digital folder or spreadsheet to keep everything in one place.
Visit Colleges
If possible, visit some college campuses this summer. Walking around campuses and getting a feel for different environments can be an eye-opening experience. Many schools also offer virtual tours or information sessions, which can be a great way to get a feel for a school without leaving home. This is also a good time to research specific financial aid opportunities at each school. Some institutions offer merit-based scholarships or need-based aid that can significantly impact your child’s college affordability.
While summer might feel like a break, it’s also an important time to lay the groundwork for your child’s future college journey. By starting early with financial aid prep and conversations, you can help reduce the pressure of the application process.
More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors
Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.