College Planning Timeline: What Can Parents Do & When

Jackie Thibeault, Wealth Advisor, has published a new LinkedIn article providing guidance for families as they navigate their teens’ college planning journey. This important life milestone doesn’t have to feel overwhelming when you have a solid plan in place!

Helping your teen prepare for college doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a clear timeline and a little guidance, you can support them through each step of their journey – from their first day of high school to moving them into their college dorm room. Here’s a year-by-year breakdown to help you stay informed and on track.

9th Grade: Lay the Groundwork

Freshman year is all about building a strong foundation.

  • Encourage your teen to explore interests through clubs, sports, and electives.
  • Help them develop good study habits and time management skills.
  • Start tracking achievements and extracurriculars.
  • Meet with school counselors to understand academic pathways.

Parent Tip: Begin casual conversations about college. It’s never too early to encourage them to start exploring their passions and thinking about their future.

10th Grade: Explore Possibilities

Sophomore year is a great time to start thinking about direction.

  • Review course selections to ensure they align with college prep goals.
  • Talk about career interests and potential college majors.
  • Support involvement in leadership roles and volunteer work.
  • Consider PSAT prep to build test-taking confidence.
  • Take a close look at your own finances and what you can afford to contribute towards education costs. As your child begins to look at schools, it is important for you to know what is financially feasible.

Parent Tip: Visit a nearby college campus for fun. Early exposure to different schools will help your student begin determining likes and dislikes.

11th Grade: Research and Readiness

Junior year is the heart of college planning.

  • Begin SAT/ACT prep and schedule test dates.
  • Create a list of potential colleges based on academics, location, and cost.
  • Begin touring colleges that students are interested in. School breaks and summertime are great opportunities to take college visit road trips.
  • Attend college fairs and virtual info sessions together.
  • Research scholarships and financial aid options.
  • Meet with counselors to review academic progress and goals.

Parent Tip: Help your teen draft a resume and brainstorm college essay ideas.

12th Grade: Apply and Decide

Senior year is all about action.

  • Finalize the college list and track application deadlines.
  • Assist with FAFSA and CSS Profile submissions (FAFSA opens October 1).
  • Review and edit college essays and applications.
  • Compare financial aid offers and scholarship packages.
  • Visit campuses (if possible) before making a final decision.
  • Celebrate acceptance instances and help with enrollment steps.

Parent Tip: Keep a shared calendar of deadlines and encourage your teen to stay organized.

Final Thoughts

College planning is a journey, and your support makes a big difference for your child. By staying involved and informed, you can help your teen make confident and thoughtful decisions without adding stress. Remember, your role is to guide, not control, the process.

Click here and learn more about how Copper Leaf Financial can help you and your family reach all of your financial goals – including the college planning journey.

Recipients should not act on the information presented without seeking prior professional advice. Check with your advisor about your specific situation or contact Copper Leaf Financial at 802.878.2731.

Click here to read the original article as published in LinkedIn.

By Jackie Thibeault, Associate Wealth Advisor, Copper Leaf Financial.

Additional Resources