Going to college often means leaving the nest.  Kids get their first chance at limited independence from the rules and routine of home.  This is a big transition period, not only for the college-bound, but also for the parents.  There is an enormous amount of planning that goes into the process of college entrance (exams, applications), college acceptance (choosing a major, choosing housing), and college preparation (buying supplies, moving).  It is never too soon to begin to plan for your child’s education, but if you have a child in high school, it is time to begin in earnest in order to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Here are some areas in which you and your child will need to focus in order to get things done in a timely manner.  We’ll be looking at each area more deeply this week.  There will be new lists, checklists, and worksheets to help guide and motivate you toward a successful college transition.

• Entrance
  •  Taking exams:  SAT preparation, test-taking skills, essays
  •  Choosing a college:  college visits, programs and courses, costs
  •  Filling out applications:  deadlines, essays, letters of recommendation
• Acceptance
  •  Finding the money:  financial aid, scholarships, grants, work/study
  •  Choosing a major:  interests, strengths, jobs available
  •  Choosing housing:  on campus, off campus, roommates
• Preparation
  •  Buying supplies:  textbooks, computer, dorm/apartment necessities
  •  Packing:  luggage, boxes, packing list
  •  Moving:  moving date, flights, moving truck

Do you have a child on his/her way to college next year?  Where are you in your preparations?  Help this community by imparting your experiences in the comments below.

Members to ListPlanIt will find the lists they need for planning and preparing for your child’s education in Student Planning.  Not yet a member?  Join today for just $5 and get organized.