Strategic College List Building: Building a College List - Part 1

Parents play a pivotal role in guiding their teen toward a successful future, and it all begins with understanding the fundamental pillars of college list building: cost, location, possible major, and possible career. In this blog post, we'll delve into the first pillar: cost. Remember, this is just one part of the larger college search process, and we'll cover the other pillars in subsequent posts.

Cost: The Cornerstone of College List Building:

In the realm of college search, cost stands tall as the number one pillar. The reality is, no matter your financial background, it's crucial to consider how much it will cost to educate your teen. The landscape of college expenses has evolved, and it's essential to navigate it strategically.

When embarking on the college search process, consider the following factors related to cost:

1. Understanding College Expenses:

   - Delve into the intricacies of college costs.

   - Evaluate how much you've saved, how much you're willing to spend, and the potential for loans.

2. Strategic Financial Planning:

   - Discuss the financial commitment with your teen.

   - Explore how much “skin in the game” your teen is comfortable having, balancing the pursuit of education with financial responsibility.

3. Straddling the Debt Dilemma:

   - Acknowledge that loans are not inherently bad.

   - Strive to avoid burdening your teen with post-college debt that may hinder future opportunities.

4. Considering Alternatives:

   - Understand that the journey doesn't necessarily start where it finishes.

   - Explore options like community college or cost-effective interim solutions before transferring to the desired institution.

Scholarships: Unveiling Opportunities:

Scholarships are invaluable resources in managing college costs. Consider the following tips:

1. Internal Scholarships:

   - Explore scholarships offered by the prospective colleges directly.

   - Understand the unique opportunities each institution provides.

2. External Scholarships:

   - Engage in thorough research for external scholarships.

   - Encourage your teen to apply for these additional financial aids.

Here are two resources:

• MyScholly 
• Bold

3. Financial Aid from Institutions:

   - Emphasize the significance of directly seeking financial aid from the chosen institution.

   - Leverage strategy sessions and college list building programs to maximize opportunities.

We understand that each family's journey is unique. At Strategic Admissions Advice, we're here to partner with you in ensuring your teen's college aspirations become a reality.

If you're seeking personalized guidance, I invite you to book a Discovery Call. Whether you're interested in a Strategy Session or enrolling in our College List Builder program, we're committed to providing the support you need.

Remember, your involvement is crucial in shaping your teen's future. Head over to strategicadmissionsadvice.com to explore how we can collaborate in this exciting journey.

[Call To Action: Buy Your Child’s College List Today!]