Here's what else you might want to know.

How should I discuss college with my student?

Your student may be the first in your family to attend college, or they may come from a long line of college graduates. But, the application process has two truths that cause fear for all families. First, with its many moving but interconnected parts, applying to college is complex. Second, every student advances toward college at their own pace.

If you sense that your student is reluctant to talk about college, try to discover why. Your student might believe that college is not for them. Or, they might not know of its many opportunities. Our "Why College Matters" page can explain the value of college. Many other advocates support the cause, too. These include school counselors, teachers, and principals. They also include advisors and coaches. They also include community mentors and college admission and financial aid officers.

How involved should I be in my student’s college preparation and application process?

You have an essential role to play, regardless of whether you've been to college. No one knows your student better than you. So, follow your instincts and let experience be your guide. If your student has a record of following through with duties, that trend will likely continue in the application process. If your student requires structure and guidance, offer to help.

But remember: there is a difference between helping and over-stepping.  College will require your student to be independent and self-reliant. Managing the process of applying to college is his or her first step towards a successful, fulfilling education.

Here's how you can help your student plan ahead.

How can I help my student understand how to pay for college?

You are not alone if you have concerns about the financial aid process or your role in it. It can be particularly confusing to families encountering college for the first time. Yet, you have an army of advocates who want your student to attend college and are ready to advise you. Most of these advocates—school counselors, community mentors, advisors, and college admission and financial aid officers—will offer their advice freely and generously. So don’t be afraid to reach out and use their expertise.

Start by downloading the resources below. For links to even more resources, visit our site's paying for college section.

Why should my student use the Common App?

The Common App has over 1,000 member colleges using only one application. The colleges are diverse. They include public, private, large, small, secular, and religious colleges. No other college application system has as much diversity as Common App. That's why over 1 million students, counselors, advisors, and teachers rely on us every year.

How does Common App work? Colleges request a lot of information from applicants. We simplify the process by collecting much of it in one place. This saves students from entering their background, education, activities, and test scores for every school on their list. It also enables students to stay on top of deadlines and manage school-specific tasks – without leaving our system. 

Start your search today by exploring all the colleges that accept Common App.