��Vlog: Parents Blog

Hidden College Costs: What You Have to Pay and How to Cut Down

2026-04-25T18:28:20.364319-04:00

You and your student have tuition, room, and board taken care of with scholarships, grants, work-study, savings, and possibly some loans. You know you must figure in some costs for textbooks and dorm accessories, but is that all you have to factor in for expenses? It’s unlikely. The hidden costs of college might surprise you. Here’s a straight-to-the-point bulleted list of commonly added costs that can tack on hundreds and even thousands to your family’s college expenses, plus some ways to cut down on them.

Insurance plans

Health costs: Even though most colleges have student health centers for minor ailments, colleges require your student to have health insurance. You can keep them on your policy until they graduate, but if your family insurance doesn’t include your student, you’ll have to secure coverage. You can apply either through a private student health plan or the government health insurance marketplace. Be sure to notify the college of your coverage so they don’t bill you for theirs.
Computer insurance: If your student is bringing a computer to campus (especially a laptop), I highly recommend purchasing insurance for it. It covers loss, damage, and theft and is worth every penny. Check your homeowner’s insurance plan to see if this is already covered first.
Dorm contents insurance: Although most campuses say they’re secure, students tend to leave their doors unlocked and let anyone into their halls, even if they don’t know them. This insurance is very inexpensive but worth the cost.

Campus amenities fees

Fitness centers: Some colleges include these in tuition but some don’t. Michigan State University and Pennsylvania State University charge up to $80 per semester for the use of their on-campus facilities. Inquire about these costs before your student enters college in the fall.
Parking and car registration: Many colleges discourage freshmen from bringing cars to campus. But if your teen is commuting, they’ll have to pay those fees to park while they attend classes. Without a college parking sticker, tickets will add up quickly.
Dorm damage deposit: This fee will appear on the bill of anyone living on campus. Expect to pay this fee every year—but don’t ever expect to get it back. College students are notorious for abusing their dorm rooms. Even if your student is nice and tidy, odds are their roommate won’t be.
College campus cards: These cards are used for on-campus necessities like snacks, printing and copies, and class supplies from the campus bookstore. It’s like a debit card, and you or your student will need to load the card with money as it runs out.
Technology fees: Most colleges have computer labs, Wi-Fi access, ethernet connections, and video equipment. Colleges often charge fees to offset the costs of maintaining these services.
Lab fees: In addition to tuition, colleges charge fees for the use of lab equipment. If your student is a STEM major, expect to see these on the bill.
Activity fees: These pesky little add-ons appear on your bill every semester. They can start at $100 and go into the thousands. Every college uses them to offset activity expenses without having to state specifics.
Greek life: If your student is considering joining a sorority or fraternity, there will be yearly dues involved (usually around $100–$500), not to mention all the other costs they will incur, from T-shirts and pins to formal attire and gifts for their sisters or brothers. This is a high-priced add-on, and the cost should be part of the decision to join.

Lifestyle costs

Travel expenses: If your teen is going far from home for college, don’t forget to factor in travel costs such as gas, airfare, etc. You can count on at least three or four home visits during the first year of college. After that, consider holidays and school breaks for the next four years.
Laundry services: Though it’s probably not going to be a huge expense (and some colleges don’t charge anything), students should still plan to spend around $20–$40 a month paying for laundry on campus.
Technology: Though some colleges will issue devices such as tablets and laptops to students, most don’t. That expense then falls on you. Pro tip: Apple offers a student discount that can really help when you’re buying devices for school.
Food: Your student will need to have a food budget. Be advised that meal plans won’t cover all their food costs. It’s typical for students to order delivery while studying or go out with friends. These costs can add up quickly.
Spending money: More than two-thirds of college students report receiving funds from home each month for spending money. The cost for this will depend on how much you’re willing to contribute toward their entertainment.

How to cut some of those hidden college costs

Knowing there will be additional college costs that require budgeting, here are some tips to help you save some money on them.

Take advantage of all the free campus options

Entertainment costs can add up, so students should take advantage of the free entertainment offered on their campus. College can be a cornucopia of freebies; students can get free food during campus events and enjoy free movies and plays, intramural and local sports, and other events sponsored by campus organizations.

Look for student discounts

All students are issued a student ID upon their arrival on campus. This card is a goldmine of savings for college students. They can receive discounts for museums, movie tickets, restaurants, computer costs, and even transportation. Amtrack and Greyhound offer student discounts, and if your student is booking airfare, they can use Student Universe for discounted flights.

Use student health services

Colleges have student health centers on campus to provide basic forms of medical care, so there’s no need to pay a copay or leave campus to seek medical help. Unless it’s a medical emergency, these clinics are sufficient and can save you money if your student needs a prescription for common ailments like a sore throat. In addition to physical medical care, colleges also offer counseling to all students as well. If your student needs mental health care, these services are also available free of charge, so encourage them to take advantage.

Leave the car at home

There’s no need to take a car to campus. Leaving it at home will remove the cost of parking permits, mechanical upkeep, gas, and tolls from your total college costs. Most colleges discourage freshmen from bringing cars to campus anyway. They offer free transportation around campus and to stores and other off-campus destinations.

Work part-time

Whether your student qualifies for work-study or gets a part-time job close to campus, that money can come in handy for college expenses. Plus, studies show that students who work during college are more focused and do better academically than those who don’t.

Share with a roommate

This may seem logical, but it bears suggesting. Your student can share the cost of textbooks, dorm furniture like microwaves and mini-refrigerators, and so much more with their roommate. Sharing the cost of these pricier items lets you trim down on college costs even more and help out another family too.

You can see how easily $100 here and $200 there can add up to thousands of dollars on top of the money you’re already spending on a college education. Be smart and plan for these expenses with your student. Encourage them to work during college, curb their spending, prepare their own food, get a coffeemaker, forgo Starbucks, and even use coupons from apps. Teach your student valuable saving and budgeting skills before they head off to college to help cut down on all these costs.

Haven’t talked to your student about expectations for college finances yet? We can help you facilitate the conversation with our article Parents, It's Time to Communicate About College Costs.

Plan Ahead, Pay Less: Top College Financial Advice for High School Parents

2026-04-25T18:28:20.361184-04:00

At SMARTTRACK® College Funding, we’re asked every day by middle- and upper-middle-income parents if there’s anything they can do to make college more affordable. The problem for these families is they don’t expect much in the way of financial aid but will be challenged by the high cost of college. If they have more than one student to educate (oh boy!), their concerns multiply. The short answer is to start thinking strategically about your funding plans while your student is still two to four years away from going to college—ninth grade is optimal, 10^th grade is acceptable, and 11^th grade is urgent!

Financial questions parents should ask themselves

It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers to your college financial questions just yet, but delaying the conversation could cost you tens of thousands of dollars. Here are the key things families should be asking and deciding now.

How much can we comfortably afford?
Have we saved enough for all our children?
Will our student’s college choices be limited by cost?
Which of our financial resources can and should we draw upon?

The full retail cost of attendance at a four-year undergraduate institution currently runs between $80,000–$320,000 on average. Most families have not saved that much or don’t have enough cash flow to cover it. Many also believe the financial aid system is only for lower-income families, so they don’t engage in the process at all. The reality is the aid system is much larger and more inclusive than most families realize, even for those in the middle- and upper-middle-income ranges.

A look at your EFC

When you submit your financial information during the FAFSA process, colleges and the government will determine the minimum amount they expect you to pay out of pocket. This calculation is called your Expected Family Contribution (aka EFC, and what’s soon to be known as the Student Aid Index). We’ve rarely met a middle- or upper-middle-income parent who got their EFC estimate and said, “No problem—this is what we can reasonably afford.” It’s usually more like, “Are you kidding me? Why is it so high?!” The reason is simple: For many middle- and upper-middle-income families, how they organize their financial life can artificially inflate their EFCs.

It’s critical for parents to review their financial profiles in the years before their student applies to college and mitigate any red flags inadvertently elevating their EFC calculations. When you give yourself the time to organize your finances—including how your income is derived, how your assets are configured, how your taxes are structured, and more—you’ll put yourself in a position to be more favorably assessed. Your tax return offers the best analogy: You’ll pay more in taxes if you don’t take every legitimate deduction available to you, right?

The taxes factor

For high school seniors filing the FAFSA, the tax year that will be your base year for financial aid consideration is not the year prior to your student applying to college, but the year before that. Referred to as your “prior-prior year,” it means your tax return from the year your student was a sophomore or first-semester junior in high school will become the basis for grants, scholarships, and loan offers the first time you apply for financial aid. You have the power to impact that tax return, but only if you start thinking strategically in advance.

Funding beyond financial aid

How you pay for college will impact how much you pay for college. When you use your resources in the most tax-advantaged, cost-efficient way possible, you can potentially save yourself tens of thousands of dollars. For example, let’s say you withdraw from your retirement account to help cover costs for your student’s freshman year of college. When you submit new financial aid applications the next academic year, they’ll assess those funds as income, which will reduce your aid eligibility. So now you’ve damaged your retirement fund and reduced your financial aid package. But when you learn to leverage your income and assets to maximize what’s available from the government and colleges, it’ll reduce the amount you may have to borrow and save you from financial burden.

College generosity

Another big factor in maximizing your savings is for your student to consider schools that are likely to be generous to your family—as long as they are still a good fit for your student. A generous school is one that can meet your family’s financial need with more grants and scholarships and has the resources to provide merit aid to incentivize your student to accept their admission offer. A school isn’t considered generous if they fill your aid package with nothing but loan offers. Many families will miss the boat here because they’re deterred by the high price tag of private schools that might actually be very generous, making those institutions more affordable than expected.

For middle- and upper-middle-income families with students heading to college in the next few years, now is the time to get your financial house in order. This will help you maximize your student’s eligibility for grants, scholarships, and other financial aid as well as set you on a path to paying for college in the most affordable way possible given your personal circumstances.

Find even more expert answers to all your financial aid questions with Our Best Advice to Help You Pay for a College Education.

Everything Parents Need to Know Before Opening a 529 College Savings Plan

2026-04-25T18:28:20.358083-04:00

Nearly every family relies on some type of financial aid to pay for their teen’s higher education. Loans, grants, and scholarships comprise most financial aid packages, but applying for these aid options typically occurs when your student is ready to graduate high school. A 529 savings plan is a way for proactive parents to save for higher education long before their teen starts thinking about college—in fact, parents can open one of these accounts before their child even enters grade school. And parents aren’t the only ones who can open these accounts for a designated student. Anyone who’s 18 or older with a Social Security number can open an account for themselves or someone else. What a great gift from a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or godparent!

What is a 529 college savings plan?

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings account specifically for education. Originally created just for post-secondary schooling, these accounts can also now be used for K–12 expenses. Funds in these accounts can cover a wide range of education-related costs—everything from textbooks to room and board to tools for attending trade school. There are two common types of 529 plans:

Educational savings plans: These are similar to a standard savings account. The difference is in how they’re taxed. These plans are tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free if the funds are used for qualified education expenses.
Prepaid tuition plans: This type of plan is a way of paying future tuition expenses at a current rate—essentially “locking in” tuition at a lower cost. Some prepaid tuition plans restrict which colleges they may be used for, so be sure to inquire with schools when exploring higher education financial aid and funding options.

Educational savings plans can also be used for:

K–12 tuition and fees for participating schools
Apprenticeship program tuition, fees, and materials
Student loan repayments
Computers and other technology needs while enrolled in school
Accessibility education-related equipment for students with disabilities

Rules and regulations

529 plans are administered by all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The rules and regulations, including taxation, are different for these accounts in each state. You can contribute any amount to your beneficiary’s 529 account each year, but be aware that some states have a cap on how much you can contribute overall. Even if the beneficiary takes a gap year or decides not to go straight to college after high school, they can still utilize their 529 account when they’re ready to attend; there’s no time limit on when it can be used.

How to open a 529 plan

A broker or financial advisor can handle the process of opening an account for you and your student. These professionals act as intermediaries between you, the client, and the state. They can help interpret the financial jargon that comes with opening a new financial account and, of course, answer any questions you may have.

Benefits of 529 plans

There’s no question about it—college is expensive. The most obvious benefit to a 529 plan is the security of knowing your student will be set for college. While money in a 529 plan can only be used for education-related expenses, this is a broad category. If you’re worried about paying for things like books or a new computer for your child, you can rest a little easier. Think of it as an extra financial cushion that can cover a wide range of necessities. However, there are tons of other benefits:

Ease of setup: A trusted financial advisor can take care of setting up and managing the account for you. They can also advise you on when to add to the account, when to withdraw, and any other relevant issues. You’ll receive a monthly statement just as you would with a standard savings account, so you can track your deposits and withdrawals throughout the life of the plan.
Flexibility: There are 529 college savings plans available regardless of which state you live in. However, be aware that the rules for these accounts are different for each state. If you move, speak with a financial advisor in your new state about your account and how it may change.
Tax-free withdrawals: Unlike savings bonds or other types of funding, there are no federal income tax implications for withdrawing money from a 529 account if you’re using the funds for education-related expenses. Some states don’t even tax withdrawals; this is something to ask your financial advisor.
Tax-free contributions: There are no fees or tax-related expenses for depositing funds into this type of account.

Drawbacks to 529 plans

There’s no “one size fits all” approach to 529 accounts. Each state has their own rules and regulations, so depending on where you live, your account might be different from the account of a friend or relative in another state. You need to be prepared for the guidelines that come attached. As stated before, 529 plans are only for education-related expenses, so if you’re short on cash or an unforeseen emergency pops up, you can’t dip into this account to cover those costs.

College is expensive, but there are ways to start saving for education long before your student starts looking at schools or filling out applications. A 529 plan can give you some peace of mind and the extra financial resources to help them reach their educational goals.

In the end, you may find yourself with more college savings than you expect. Come back to our article on Smart Things You Should Do With Excess 529 Funds if you’re one of the lucky ones!

4 Great Reasons for Your Student to Consider Community College

2026-04-25T18:28:20.354002-04:00

College is a complicated issue for many students and parents today. It’s a necessity for finding success and prosperity in many career paths, but concerns about student loan debt and graduate unemployment are making the process of pursuing higher education more stressful and uncertain than ever before. Community colleges are becoming increasingly popular options for students everywhere as a means of securing credits before transferring to a university. But there are other reasons students and their parents should consider community college.

1. Community college has an undeserved bad reputation

Community colleges are often stigmatized in many academic circles. Students and parents alike disdain the idea of a community college education because they believe prestigious institutions look down upon them. Worries about how an employer will view community college education on a résumé can be disconcerting as well. However, you shouldn’t be concerned about such fallacies. Your teen can study at a community college before transferring to another school and still have access to all the same opportunities as every other student while receiving a valuable education at a much lower cost.

2. Community college saves you money

With college costs soaring year after year, community college remains one of the most affordable options in higher education—in fact, it can save you a bundle in more ways than one. Community college tuition is significantly lower than that of traditional four-year colleges and universities, including public and in-state institutions. While attending a local community college, students can often remain at home to save on room and board, which is close to $10,000 a year on average at four-year schools.

If your student is employed while in high school, they can keep their job by staying local throughout their college years. This income could go a long way toward paying for transportation and college costs. And if low grades are preventing them from getting a scholarship at a college or university, attending a community college to earn an associate degree can be an affordable stepping stone, giving them the opportunity to improve their grades and transfer to a university with a possibility of a scholarship. While you could likely finance an expensive private college or university education with federal or private student loans, attending community college means your student will be one step ahead financially if they can enter the workforce with minimal debt or possibly even debt-free.

3. Community college develops career interests

While studying key academic subjects like writing and mathematics at a community college, your teen could also explore other lines of study through elective courses. This can help them find paths that’ll lead to prosperous careers. Exposure to philosophy in community college could spur an interest in law. A course in the arts or writing could unlock a passion for creative work that leads to a prosperous and fulfilling career. Community colleges allow students to explore a variety of subjects without the financial stress that comes from university costs.

4. Community colleges confer valuable degrees

Community college students can earn an affordable associate degree and transfer to a four-year college or university quite easily. This is an especially good option for students who have low GPAs but want to ultimately pursue a career that requires a bachelor’s degree. Your student could walk away with two degrees instead of one in only four years. In addition, community college is an ideal place to get training in the trades. Many in-demand, well-paying jobs require only an associate degree, with more and more educational programs offering career-focused degrees. Working as an electrician, plumber, or mechanic can be financially lucrative, and major shortages of qualified workers in these fields are on the horizon.

So, is community college a wise choice?

Selecting a college is one of the most important decisions your student will make. Community college is an especially important option to consider if your teen:

Doesn’t particularly enjoy school, isn’t confident academically, or has a low GPA;
Isn’t certain what field they’re interested in pursuing yet;
Wants to pursue a career that doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree;
Wants to pursue a career that only requires certification or training; and/or
Aren’t ready to be fully independent and could benefit from an easier transition from high school to college.

Having your student attend community college may just be the right financial decision for your family. Transferring to a four-year university after two years of community college could help ease your financial burden and still ensure your student gets the full college experience. As you help your teen navigate the college selection process, take a second look at community college to see if it might be the right choice for them.

If you or your student are curious about what transferring to a four-year school would look like, check out Our Best Advice for the Transfer Admission Process.

How to Prepare Your College-Bound Student for a Stress-Free Move

2026-04-25T18:28:20.349921-04:00

Finally, the day you and your teen have long awaited (maybe even dreaded) is here: college move-in day! This is a major transition in your student’s life, and as a parent, you want to do everything you can to make it as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. We’re here to help you do it! Here are some suggestions to make the upcoming hectic day go smoothly.

Pack well in advance

The word of the day is preparation. If you and your teen take the time and patience to get everything ready well in advance of the big day, you’ll have a quick and easy time loading up the car and unpacking in their new room. Start at the beginning of the summer and do a little bit of organizing or packing up belongings each week. Help your student decide what they’re bringing to college and what should stay home depending on their room size. In addition, as the date gets closer, wash all their clothes and bedding before packing them so a trip to the dorm laundry room is off their long list of tasks the first day. If there’s still anything your teen needs to learn about laundry, go over it with them.

Pack more than you think you’ll need

Eliminate anxiety about being underprepared by bringing a little more than you think you’ll need. Items that run out quickly or students find they lack on move-in day include Command tape and adhesive strips, Command hooks, storage containers, clothes hangers, etc. Consider packing clothing already on hangers to save room and time spent fitting clothes to hangers in the dorm room closet. Anything that doesn’t need to stay when it’s time to say goodbye can go back home with you.

If you’re concerned about the immensity of the task or live far away from the college, consider hiring a moving company—just do your research to employ movers you can trust. Look for companies with a reputation for treating customers fairly and taking good care of cargo. If you are moving by yourselves, bring a dolly or consider calling ahead to see if the college provides carrying carts for student use.

Know all essential move-in day information

Set aside time to go over essential move-in day information with your student so you both know exactly what to do on the big day, including but not limited to:

Dorm building and room number
Where to check-in and get keys
What paperwork you need to fill out
The move-in day/Welcome Week schedule
Dorm building rules (especially what can’t be brought to campus)

Help your teen document everything they need to know and everything they need to bring. It may be time-consuming, but it’ll save a lot of trouble in the future if there’s anything they forget or any debate between roommates over who owns what.

Take care of your health

There’s no worse way to go into college move-in day than stressed out, exhausted, and malnourished. You and your student need to take care of your health in addition to your luggage. If your teen’s college is far from home, you may want to book a hotel near the campus the night before the move. This way, you won’t have a long and tiring road trip the same day you have to unload the car. Get at least eight hours of sleep, drink plenty of water, and eat a healthy breakfast on the morning of move-in day. Even if your teen is eager to get moving, this is important to spend time on.

Communicate openly with your student

While it may be difficult to get a teenager on the cusp of adulthood and independence to open up, it’s still essential to try. They may be having mixed emotions about going to college, vacillating between fear and excitement. Encourage them to talk openly about how they feel. With luck, you’ll be able to alleviate some of their anxieties. Ask them what they expect and want from their first few days at college so you two are on the same page. Do regular emotional check-ins over the summer to find out what worries them the most. Bottling up negative feelings may result in unnecessary stress on move-in day.

Find support

As your student’s world expands, you should also make sure they know you’re not the only one they can reach out to. Ask relatives and other loved ones in advance to keep in touch with your child and see how they’re doing during the first weeks of college. Knowing they have many people in their corner will make moving on easier.

Plant treats

If you think you can pull some fast ones while taking care of everything on move-in day, consider leaving special treats hidden in their clothes, drawers, or pillow for your student to discover in the coming days. Small candies, encouraging notes, and whatever else you know they would enjoy will remind them they’re not alone even after you’ve left campus. And of course, plan to send plenty of care packages in the future!

Moving away from home for the first time can be an overwhelming process for both parents and college-bound students. But with some planning, communication, and mutual support, you can work together to make this big move easier on both you and your teen.

Did you know you can ease your fears even more before move-in day by attending parent orientation? Check out our blog on the Top 4 Questions to Ask About Parent College Orientation to learn more!

Smart College Budgeting Advice for Parents and Money Strategies for Students

2026-04-25T18:28:20.345785-04:00

Finding the money to pay for college can be stressful for both parents and students. Add to this the stress of applying to then choosing a school, most families could use some help to better budget and plan for all the costs of a higher education. Here are some budgeting basics for smart college planning as well as some strategies your students can employ to help bring down the cost.

Understand your financial situation

Sitting down and looking into your finances is step one for parents. The next step is to make a budget based on what you have, re-evaluate your finances to accommodate for college, and look into every possible savings option so the costs don’t overwhelm your other expenses. Parents and students should have a frank conversation about what they can and cannot afford before applying to any schools.

Your student should contribute in some way

There are numerous opportunities for students both before and during college, and these jobs can help pay for school supplies, room and board, textbooks, or rent. Students can even find jobs on campus and apply for scholarships to make building up their savings even easier. Contributing to their own education will also motivate them to do their best in school. And as students pitch in, it teaches them about budgeting and how to handle their finances.

Avoid falling into unnecessary debt

Paying for college is challenging, but that doesn’t mean you should allow yourself to fall into unnecessary debt. Students should never borrow more than their estimated first-year salary after graduation—and parents should not compromise their retirement to pay for college. If you must take out loans, always choose federal over private as the interest rates are lower and there are forbearance and deferment options after graduation.

Find extra work that will provide passive income

With all the added expenses of college, having a side income might be helpful. Numerous jobs could help you supplement your income. If you’re an expert on a subject, you can blog about it or offer paid consultations. You could also teach or do work like graphic design or digital art if you have these skills. Many families these days are finding side hustles online to supplement their primary incomes, helping them avoid that aforementioned college debt.

Look into education-related tax deductions

Consider pursuing educational tax deductions like the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC). It covers up to $2,000 in qualified tuition and fees, plus 25% of the following $2,000 expenses. Parents can claim this credit for all four years of a student’s undergraduate program. Parents can also try the Lifetime Learning Tax Credit, which gives a 20% credit on $10,000 of qualifying expenses. However, if you file as an individual, your income can’t exceed $59,000. Married couples filing jointly must earn no more than $118,000, even if lower credits are available for unmarried individuals earning $69,000 and married couples earning $138,000 per year.

Student strategies to save money on the overall cost of college

The best way to prepare for the high cost of college is to start planning early in high school and continue these strategies as your student begins the admission process. If your teen uses these strategies before they make their final college choice, they should be able to graduate from college with little or no debt, and you should be able to pay for it without borrowing or dipping into your retirement.

Focus on academics: Students should make it a goal to choose pre-college AP and honors courses and get the best grades possible. If your student does poorly early on in high school, it can be difficult to catch up later. All throughout high school, your student should place a high value on academic progress: committing to studying, preparing for class and tests, seeking help when they need it, and putting academics before any other activity. Charging by credit hour in college adds up. If students enroll in AP classes during high school and earn high scores on the tests, many colleges will award credit for those courses, saving them time and money.
Take dual-credit courses: Through dual-credit programs, students take college courses simultaneously while attending high school. A student could potentially enter college as a sophomore and graduate sooner with the right courses. Additionally, many high schools offer dual-credit courses at a discounted rate, usually at local community colleges. It doesn’t take a math whiz to figure out that this is a huge savings opportunity for families.
Apply for outside scholarships: Students should start applying for scholarships as early as possible. There are scholarships available for all ages, so waiting until senior year is a poor decision. Just searching and applying for an hour a day could produce big rewards and help your teen start racking up funds each year to make a huge dent in their tuition bill.
Choose the colleges with the best financial aid footprint: What does this mean? Look for colleges that offer a high percentage of financial aid—information you can easily find because every college reports these statistics. This will tell you how generous a school is with scholarships and grants as well as the percentage of students who receive aid. Using College Navigator, your student can search with criteria such as location, size, and degree plans or look for a specific school, then compare data of all the colleges they’re interested in.

Parents and students should work together to make college affordable for the whole family. By partnering in this process, you and your teen will both benefit from sharing (and possibly lowering) the cost while contributing to a valuable college education.

Can’t get enough money tips and strategies? There are a lot more where these came from in Our Best Advice to Help You Pay for a College Education.

How Parents Can Help Their Teens Tackle Back-to-School Avoidance

2026-04-25T18:28:20.341058-04:00

As summer draws to a close, the upcoming school year often brings both a wave of excitement and nervousness for many students. School avoidance, also known as school refusal, is a phenomenon characterized by a student’s reluctance to attend school. By understanding the specific fears and concerns driving teen avoidance, parents can develop effective strategies to address and alleviate their own student’s anxiety. While school avoidance can be seen at any point during the year, as you’re thinking about how to best prepare your student for a successful school year, it’s an opportune time to explore the causes behind school avoidance and its association with anxiety with these strategies.

Identify what causes anxiety for your teen

Middle and high school students experiencing school avoidance often grapple with worries about social standing, embarrassment, or feeling singled out by their peers. Social situations that involve larger groups or public areas, such as navigating hallways or eating lunch in the cafeteria, can trigger significant anxiety. It’s crucial to identify and acknowledge these specific fears to provide targeted support and reassurance to your teenager.

Be proactive and preventative

While intervention strategies are vital, prevention also plays a significant role in managing school avoidance. As school approaches, implement a pre-emptive exposure and anxiety reduction plan. Ideally, this plan should be initiated two to four weeks before the start of the new school year. Visiting the school, walking around campus, and seeing where classes are located can help familiarize your teen with the school environment and get them ready for the first day. They could even bring a friend along to make it a more fun, social, and relaxed experience. By proactively addressing anxiety, you can create a positive association with the school experience.

Talk about anxiety

According to a study by the Harvard Graduate School of Education, 40% of teens reported wanting their parents to “reach out more to ask how [they’re] really doing and to really listen.” It can be helpful to be open and honest with your teen about your own struggles with anxiety. Did you have a hard time going back to school as a kid? Have you had a hard time preparing yourself for the first day at a new job? Talking openly about your own struggles—past or present—can help your students feel less alone and more open to expressing their concerns with you when they arise.

Be thoughtful about re-entry

If your student remains out of school for an extended period, reintegration can become challenging. Proactive communication with your student’s school is important to address this issue head on, so initiate conversations with a principal, teacher, or counselor to devise a personalized "re-entry plan." This usually involves exposing the student to school gradually, like coming to the school office or going in on a weekend or evening when fewer people are around. They can then work up to half days until they feel they’ve mastered their fears and are more confident to return full-time. I’ve seen this gradual exposure technique work, especially when coupled with support and rewards.

Seek professional support if necessary

In some cases, anxiety experienced by a student may require additional assistance. Parents should consider involving a mental health professional who can provide specialized support and guidance. SonderMind providers often work with parents throughout the school year on these sorts of issues. A professional can help identify and address the underlying causes of anxiety, develop tailored anxiety management techniques, and collaborate with your student’s school to create an individualized plan for success.

As the world continues to navigate the challenges of a post-pandemic era, it’s important for parents to be attuned to their teens’ anxiety around returning to school, whether that be on the first day or mid-year. By understanding the distinct concerns felt by teenagers, parents can implement targeted, thoughtful strategies to alleviate anxiety and encourage regular, uninterrupted school attendance.

At ��Vlog, we understand the importance of parents having access to resources about the college search too! Check out some of Our Best Advice for Parents Helping Students Plan for College.

How to Help Your Live-In College Student Prepare for an Independent Life

2026-04-25T18:28:20.336569-04:00

As your student makes the transition from high school to college, they are entering a very different world—a world of freedom but also responsibility. For parents whose students choose to live at home while attending college, it’s hard to come to the realization that their student is taking a huge step toward adulthood when it seems like nothing has changed. This transition period offers its own set of challenges for parents, students, and families alike. First, we must ask the question…

Is your student prepared for college?

I’m talking about the “real” college prep: adulthood. As parents and guardians, we must prepare our teenagers for independent living. That means they need to know how to self-advocate, how to say “no” to behaviors with negative consequences, and how to be responsible with their time and money. In today’s ever-changing world, we all need the ability to make wise social and economic choices. Even though your student will be living at home while attending college, do they know how to budget? Do they understand the importance of class attendance and studying? Do they know how to choose the right friends? Will they make wise choices about alcohol, sex, and other risky behaviors? Preparing them for college is so much more than academics and getting yourself up in the morning.

Preparing your student for independence

For many parents, the most difficult aspect of the college change is letting go. You have been responsible for your student’s every need for years: food, clothing, education, and guidance. The goal for every parent is to move their child toward independence, and college is often the next step. To have a smooth transition while they’re still under your roof, follow these simple guidelines.

Set some ground rules

Before your teen starts college, set some ground rules about what you expect from them academically and financially. Discuss any concerns you might have regarding house rules that will be different now that they’re a college student living at home. You’ll have to come up with some agreeable rules that allow them to have more independence and still respect you as a parent. This includes deciding if they’re required to pay rent and/or hold down a job.

Give your student space to be an adult

It’s essential to give your live-in student some space to exert their independence and learn some life lessons—aka the space to be an adult. Don’t be one of those parents who stalks their college student with constant texts, unending phone calls, and apps that provide 24/7 location monitoring. Even though they’re living at home, you need to give them some freedom to live their new college life and make adult choices.

But listen carefully and be available

When your student is at home and comes to you, be present and listen carefully to what they’re saying. There might be a tone in their voice you pick up on or a few words you take note of that will let you know they’re struggling. Often, they’ll just need someone to vent to and receive comfort from—not for you to jump to the rescue. Help guide them to figure out the root of what’s wrong on their own and what would help resolve the problem.

Start teaching financial skills

With this transition, there will be many financial decisions your student needs to make, beginning with how much college debt they’re willing to incur. Find a loan repayment calculator to determine payments after graduation and use these figures to make wise choices about borrowing money for school. They’ll also need to know how to budget their money and make smart spending decisions. Many students graduate from college with over $10,000 in credit card debt. That’s why it’s important to discuss credit card rates and how easy it is to fall into debt, even with simple purchases such as coffee or fast food.

Stress the importance of academics

College is not like high school; professors expect students to do their assignments, and they don’t check up on them if they don’t. Going to college with refined study and organizational skills—and a commitment to their education—will help your student adjust to the rigorous course requirements of a college degree program. Learning how to properly manage their time is also important, as it relates to class assignments, studying for tests, and preparing term papers.

But remind them to find a good balance

Recognize that while they shouldn’t forget the main reason they’re attending college—to get an education—making friends and enjoying the social scene are also necessary for any student’s overall satisfaction with the college experience. This is especially true for students living off campus, many of whom experience feelings of isolation from the campus community. Discuss ways they can balance their social life with their academic life before they start college, and encourage them to get involved, take advantage of campus resources, and attend in-person events if they can.

Talk about mental health

College life produces a whole new set of mental and emotional challenges. Your student should feel comfortable attending college with the skills needed to cope with the stress and the feelings of loneliness that often come with being a commuter student. Recognize that all these factors contribute to their overall mental health, and encourage them to self-advocate and ask for help if needed.

Encourage skill building

College is no different than life—obstacles will occur daily, and students need the skills to deal with those obstacles. Your teen will be confronted with conflict and should know how to resolve it, either by themselves or with a mediator (such as a student advisor). They’ll face situations that require them to advocate for themselves and others, and they should be comfortable doing this before they integrate into a college community. Even though they’re living at home, they should be prepared to solve their own problems and not seek your help at every turn.

Transitioning from high school to college is hard for both students and their parents. It’s a new world of independence and discovery for each of you, and you should embrace it with excitement and anticipation. Give your commuter student space at home to explore their new life as a college undergrad while enjoying having them around just a little bit longer.

This isn’t where the college parenting advice ends! Check out Our Best Advice for Parents Helping Students Plan for College to master the process from start to finish.

4 Helpful Tips for Parents of First-Generation College Students

2026-04-25T18:28:20.331894-04:00

Embarking on the college journey can be complex for any student, especially so if they’re the first in their family to do so. First-generation college students lack the experience with higher education other students might have through their parents, so your student may need extra help with the application process, financial aid, and support access. They may also struggle with imposter syndrome and isolation, adding stress in an unfamiliar environment. But you can help them a lot more than you may think you can! Parenting a first-gen college student requires a solid plan to understand the process they’re going through, avoid burnout, and keep them in school until graduation. Here are four important ways you can support your student.

1. Understand the unique challenges faced by first-gen students

You have the power to help your students recognize stumbling blocks and work with them to find solutions. Most first-gen students will need extra help with college applications, researching colleges, gathering transcripts, asking for letters of recommendation, taking tests, meeting deadlines, and more. They also need to craft compelling personal statements and essays to help them stand out from other applicants. Parents should stay informed of these expectations to support their students by helping them stay on top of important details and deadlines.

The financial burden of application fees and college tuition often plague the application process as well. Parents should assist their students by working with them to research scholarships, grants, and student loans. You can also encourage them to consider on-campus work-study opportunities to help cover expenses. Have an open conversation with them about how much, if anything, you can contribute and create a financial plan with them.

2. Build a support network for them

For a first-generation college student, success can largely depend on their support network. As a parent, you can play a vital role in building and nurturing this network by:

Encouraging your teen to connect with other first-gen students on campus
Supporting relationship growth with professors and academic advisors
Reaching out to other parents to create a network of support where advice can be shared

The impact of these connections and support has the potential to last long after college and into their careers.

3. Find resources that cater to you and your student

Colleges and universities offer many resources that support first-generation students, including academic assistance, mentorship, financial aid, and counseling. When researching colleges, prioritize those with dedicated offices or programs for first-generation families. These resources can provide guidance, information, and emotional support throughout the college experience. In addition to college resources, national organizations provide support, scholarships, college planning services, and online communities for families who are new to the college planning and application process.

4. Help students balance academics, work, and life

The transition to college can be difficult, and not properly adjusting to the changes in their academic work and personal life can negatively impact your student's experience. To reduce frustration, parents can help first-generation students develop practical time management skills and achieve a healthy balance. Encourage your student to create a weekly schedule that includes time for classes, studying, work, activities, and personal time. This structured plan will help them prioritize their responsibilities and stay focused.

Remind your first-gen student to also prioritize self-care by taking breaks, exercising, and enjoying relaxation time. Doing so promotes overall well-being and prevents burnout. Also, highlight the importance of seeking help when they need it. Encourage your student to contact professors for homework clarification, use tutoring services to bring up a grade, or meet with a campus mental health counselor if they ever feel like they’re struggling or need someone else to talk to.

Related: Top 5 Time Management Tips for High School Students

Even if you haven’t gone through the college search and admission process yourself, parental involvement can greatly impact the outcome of the first-generation college student experience. While you can't do everything for your students, you can help them navigate any complexities and difficulties they may face. Encourage them to build a strong support network, help them find specific resources for first-gen students, and teach them how to balance their academic and personal lives effectively. By maintaining open communication, providing guidance, and remaining an active part of their academic planning, you can help your student succeed in college!

This is just the start of our advice for first-gen teens and the college search! Check out our “first-generation students” tag to find even more blogs and articles about this important topic.

How to Help Your Teen Embrace the New School Year

2026-04-25T18:28:20.326791-04:00

As summer vacation draws to a close, many parents face the challenge of helping their teens transition from relaxed days off to the structured routine of a new school year. This shift can be particularly difficult for students who are reluctant to let go of the freedom and fun that summer offers. However, with a few thoughtful strategies, you can help your student get into the back-to-school mindset and ensure a smooth and positive start to the academic year.

Acknowledge their feelings

Before anything else, start by validating your teen's feelings. Vocally acknowledge to them that it's normal to feel sad or anxious about the end of summer and unsure about the new school year ahead. Share your own experiences with transition and how you dealt with them. This will help your teen feel understood and less alone in their emotions.

If your teen is particularly anxious about returning to school, address their concerns directly and offer reassurance. Talk about specific worries they might have, such as social dynamics, academic pressure, or changes to their schedule. If necessary, seek additional support from their school counselor or a mental health professional.

Gradually reconnect with school routines

Both you and your student can ease into the school year by gradually reintroducing balanced routines. A week or two before school starts (or now if it already has), they should adjust their sleep schedules, mealtimes, and daily activities to mirror the school day. This gradual shift can help your teen acclimate to upcoming changes without feeling overwhelmed and feel more refreshed and prepared on the first day of school.

Create a positive mindset and environment

When they’re only focusing on the bad, encourage your teen to also see the positive aspects about returning to school. Remind them of the friends they’ll see again, the extracurricular activities they enjoy, and all the opportunities for growth and learning. Highlighting the exciting aspects can help shift their mindset from dread to anticipation. You can also help them set up a dedicated homework and study area at home. A comfortable, organized, and safe space can make homework feel less like a chore and more like a part of their daily routine in an environment they enjoy.

Incorporate learning into daily life

Engage in fun, educational activities with your teen that stimulate curiosity and learning. Going on trips to museums, reading a book together, or even cooking can provide valuable learning (and bonding) experiences. You should especially encourage daily reading; it can be great as quiet time before bed or a relaxing activity during the day to help with your student’s learning and relaxation. Help them choose books that really interest them to make reading more enjoyable.

Set goals and expectations

Now is a great time to work with your teen to help them set realistic academic and personal goals for the upcoming school year. Having clear objectives can give them a sense of purpose and direction—plus a greater sense of accomplishment when they meet them. Discuss expectations regarding homework, extracurricular activities, and time management to ensure they maintain a balanced approach to school life.

Encourage balance and self-care

Speaking of a balanced life, you can also help your teen find a healthy balance between academics, extracurricular activities, and downtime. A poorly balanced routine can lead to burnout, so encourage self-care practices such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness techniques. A well-balanced routine can enhance their overall well-being and academic performance.

Foster open communication

It’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your student throughout the school year. Make sure they know you are a safe person to share their experiences with, both positive and negative. Be a supportive listener and offer guidance when needed. Regular check-ins can help you stay attuned to their needs and address any issues promptly.

Lead by example

One big thing you can do to solidify all this advice is to demonstrate a positive attitude toward change and transitions. Your teen is likely to mirror your outlook, so model resilience, adaptability, and optimism. Share strategies for managing stress and staying organized that work for you, then allow them to follow the path that works best for them.

Transitioning from summer to the school year can be a challenging time for teenagers, but with empathy, support, and proactive strategies, you can help your student navigate this period with confidence. Remember, your support and understanding can make all the difference in helping them embrace the new school year with enthusiasm.

If your student is stressed about the added responsibility of starting the admission process, prepare yourself with Our Best Advice for Parents Helping Students Plan for College.

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