Why High School Juniors Should Start College Planning NOW: 3 Critical Timeline Facts for Parents
The Strategic Advantage of Early College Application Planning
Parents of high school juniors often wonder when the college search process should begin. The data clearly shows that starting now provides significant advantages. Here are three critical facts that demonstrate why early planning leads to better outcomes and less stress.
Fact #1 Avoid the Application Submission Traffic Jam
On October 31, 2016 (the day before most Early Action and Early Decision deadlines), nearly 800,000 recommendations were submitted through The Common Application in a single day. This staggering statistic, reported directly to NACAC by The Common Application, highlights the massive last-minute rush that occurs annually.
What This Means for Your Junior:
Server slowdowns and technical issues are common during peak submission periods
Teachers and counselors are overwhelmed with recommendation requests
Last-minute submissions increase the risk of errors or omissions
Starting early allows your student to avoid this high-stress bottleneck entirely
Fact #2 Early Planners Receive Early Decisions
While many seniors find themselves scrambling to complete applications right before deadlines, proactive students who planned ahead are already receiving decision letters before November 1.
The Early Planning Advantage:
Reduced stress during senior fall semester
More time for thoughtful application essays and supplements
Earlier financial aid package comparisons
Greater peace of mind throughout senior year
Potentially improved admission odds at some institutions
Fact #3 Maximize Campus Visit Opportunities With Students Present
Beginning your college search process now provides at least four school vacation periods to visit college campuses while classes are in session before any applications are due.
Benefits of Multiple Campus Visits:
Experience authentic campus atmosphere with students present
Allow for thoughtful discussions and list revisions between visits
Help motivate your student to set and achieve academic goals
Compare different types of institutions firsthand
Refine preferences before finalizing application lists
Create Your College Planning Timeline Now
Starting the college planning process during junior year allows you to establish a comprehensive timeline for:
Standardized testing schedules and preparation
Strategic campus visits during ideal periods
Teacher recommendation requests before the rush
Essay drafting and refinement
Application submission well ahead of deadlines
With proper planning, you'll avoid the last-minute scramble to complete applications and significantly reduce family stress during this important transition.