Starting Guide for Parents

"My child wants to go to college! I want to help but I don't know where to start! What do we need to do first? Which school would be the best fit? How are we going to pay for it? Are there federal or state funds available?"

If this is how you feel, relax, we're here to help you find some answers to your questions.

Begin Preparing During High School

While your student is in high school, there are numerous tips to help them prepare for college. The following articles offer some insights into how your student can begin preparing.

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Choosing a College/University/Conservatory

For your student to be successful, it is important to find a school that is going to be the “best fit” for them. The articles below address how to find that school and some factors that may influence their decision.

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Let’s Talk About Money

For many high school seniors and their parents, the excitement of college acceptance is accompanied by the daunting task of figuring out how to pay for it. The financial aid process can be overwhelming, but there are resources available to help students and their families through it. Federal aid, state grants, and scholarships can all contribute to making college more affordable. Here are some articles to help you understand this process.

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The Application and Audition Process

As the college application season swings into full gear, aspiring students are gearing up for a journey filled with deadlines and auditions. No matter how different schools’ requirements are, you can count on one thing: they all have deadlines. Application and audition deadlines are typically non-negotiable so mark them on your calendar!

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As a performing arts student, the audition process is critical. Some schools require that you be admitted to their school before scheduling an audition date, while others require only that you apply before scheduling an audition date. Also, check to see if the school requires a pre-screening video. Some schools want you to submit (either directly or through a link) a video of you performing an audition piece. Be sure to observe all requirements posted for any audition. These articles may help as you prepare for the audition process.

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Once you make contact with a school, expect a recruiter to call you. They'll likely want to know more about you and your interest in their program. It's essential to make a great first impression, as the recruiter will then report back to the Dean and related faculty members that you are considered a “Strong Interest.” Be sure to demonstrate your enthusiasm and knowledge of the application process and deadlines. If you give a less-than-enthusiastic answer, you risk being labeled as a "Possible Interest," which can be challenging to recover from. Instead, show your dedication and set yourself apart from the pack.

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As you work through these articles, hopefully, you will gain a better understanding of the process involved in preparing for college as well as applying, paying, and auditioning for the chosen school. So, begin preparing early, stay informed about deadlines, and explore all avenues of financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

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Start With the Federal Student Aid Process

An overview of federal aid available to help undergraduate, graduate, and professional students who are attending a university or college.