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.

 
 
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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

 
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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

 
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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.