College Planning: The Early Bird Gets the Worm

Many homebuyers work diligently and carefully with their realtors to make sure that they buy a home in a quality school district that has the environment that they want for their children.  The same level of careful planning should go into maximizing those children’s chances for a quality and affordable college education. It is never too early to start planning for college—academically, financially, and otherwise.

Key Tips for Helping Your Student Shine:
Grades are forever. Colleges will factor all grades earned from 9th grade onwards into admissions decisions. Unlike the SAT and ACT, there is no re-take for that unfortunate grade in freshman biology. Keeping grades up from day one puts your student ahead of the game.

Rigor is key. More than ever, colleges want to see not only that a student has done well, but has also challenged him or herself in the process. Getting a 4.0 with no AP classes would not be as impressive as a slightly lower GPA with AP classes. For example, UGA’s average admitted candidate in 2010 took over 5 AP classes.  Talk to the guidance office to see what  see what options you have for optimizing the rigor of your student’s schedule relative to his/her abilities.

Get involved. Colleges want well-rounded people that can contribute to their student bodies—academically, socially, and athletically. High school activities develop talents and social skills, and are fun! That said, don’t overdo it. A student with passion and depth in a few activities will be favored over a student who is only superficially involved with a dozen or more activities.

Prepare for standardized tests.  Standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT account for 25% or more of the application’s weight at many colleges.  Beginning in 2011, earning a 1200 SAT (CR+M) or 26 ACT is also a requirement for the “Zell Miller Scholarship,” otherwise known as the “Full HOPE Scholarship.” These tests are very practicable; many students take advantage of tutoring to increase their scores and chances of admission.