The Early Bird Gets the College Degree!
With many things in life, the earlier you get started planning, the easier it can be to reach your goal. This is true for a college education. Here are some resources to help with early college awareness and planning:
College Planning Calendars
Checklists for grade levels 7-12 to help you get started and stay organized
Think College Early
Early college planning info. from the U.S. Department of Education
Dream to Reality
Toolkit and PowerPoint presentation to help middle school students gain an awareness of college and career opportunities. From the Illinois Student Assistance Commission
Early Awareness Efforts
A wealth of information, resources, and activities to help with early college planing from the Minnesota Higher Education Service Office.
College Is Possible
An initiative that emphasizes that a college education is an attainable goal for all middle school and high school students.
Going Right On
Free software to help middle schoolers with college planning
Parents and Counselors Together
(Available in English and Spanish.) PACT is a program that brings together parents and the counselors to guide young students along the wide range of educational options, including steps in the college admission and financial aid process. This guide is widely used in parent workshops and education guidance as early as elementary school age and is perfect for first-generation college students.
GEAR UP
Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs. A federal program designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education.
Preparing Your Child for College
A resource book for parents, families, and others
Getting Ready for College Early
A handbook for parents of students in the middle and junior high school years
