College Decision Day - May 1 - Next Steps

Congratulations 2023 High School Graduates!

We're at May 1st! This is College Decision Day for many high school seniors across the country. On this day, many of the colleges have deadline for students to make their final decisions on which college to attend in the fall. For most families, this can be an overwhelming time as students weigh the pros and cons of different colleges and parents try to navigate the financial implications. In this blog post, we'll explore what college decision day means and provide some next steps for both parents and students.

What is College Decision Day?

On, College Decision Day, high school seniors must commit to a college by submitting a tuition deposit. This date is typically May 1st, although some colleges may have different deadlines. Colleges use this deadline to gauge how many students will be attending in the fall and to plan their enrollment accordingly. It's also an important milestone for students, as it marks the end of the college application process and the beginning of their college journey!

Next Steps for Students

Once the students (and parents) have made their college decision and submitted the tuition deposit, there are still a few things to do to prepare for college. Here are some next steps:

1. Apply for financial aid or search for private scholarships: If you haven't already, now is the time to look for free money! This can include scholarships or grants. Many colleges have their own financial aid programs, so be sure to check with your college's financial aid office for more information.

2. If you will need student loans, accept these on your college portal.

3. Attend orientation: Many colleges offer orientation programs for incoming students. These programs can help you get acclimated to campus life and connect with other students.

4. Register for classes: Once you've been accepted and have submitted your tuition deposit, you'll need to register for classes. Be sure to meet with your academic advisor to select courses that fit your interests and career goals.

Next Steps for Parents

For parents, college decision day can be an emotional and financial rollercoaster. Here are some next steps to consider:

1. Review financial aid packages: If your child has been awarded financial aid, review the packages carefully. Make sure you understand the financial committment. Typically, if you will need student loans, you must apply separately for these.

2. Prepare for move-in day: As move-in day approaches, start preparing for the transition. This can include shopping for dorm room essentials (ideally when they are on sale) , helping your child pack, and arranging transportation to the college.

3. Discuss expectations and responsibilities: Before your child leaves for college, have a frank discussion about expectations and responsibilities. This can include discussing finances, academic goals, and personal safety.

College Decision Day is a significant milestone for both students and parents. By understanding the next steps, you can make the transition to college smoother and less stressful. Whether you're a student or a parent, remember to stay positive and focus on the exciting journey ahead. Congratulations on taking this important step in your academic and personal growth!

Vicki Vollweiler, Founder of College Financial Prep, believes that planning for college will lead to saving money on the cost of college.  College Financial Prep helps parents navigate financial aid, scholarships, student loans, college planning and complicated situations such as divorce and job loss.  Visit:  https://www.collegefinancialprep.com/ to learn more.

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