Parent Hub
Congratulations!!!
You got them to their senior year and graduation is right around the corner. Although your involvement may change, there are things you can do now to prepare for college. This page outlines what parents and caregivers should know and how you can support your child before and during their first year of college.
Support Through the College Process
You may be navigating college for the first time together, but your support still matters every step of the way.
Pre-College Prep
SAT Costs: $68 registration fee - if you are low-income you may be eligible for fee waivers. More info here.
College Application Costs: On average between $50 - $75 per application. You can apply for application fee waivers here.
Thinking Ahead: The following medical documents will be needed after admission:
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Immunization Records
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Completed Health History Forms
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Physical Exam Documentation
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Health Insurance Information
Financial Aid
To be eligible for financial aid, each student must complete a FAFSA.
To complete the FAFSA, they will need the following from you:
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Name, Date of Birth, SSN
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Marital Status
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Legal Residence
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Tax Returns
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W2s or 1099s
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Bank Statements
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Child Support received, if applicable
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Investment Statements
Finding Help
High School Counselors are a great resource to ask questions about the required documentation and access to financial assistance.
Ask the counselor about information on college access programs such as Educational Opportunity Fund, TRIO Student Support Services, and McNair Scholars Program.
Inquire about scholarships in the community at your local church or community organizations.
Dorm Essentials
The average cost of dorm essentials is $500. Try your best to plan ahead and consider co-creating a college wish to share with your friends and family.
Emotional Support
As a first-generation family, college is new for everyone. Your child may experience stress, self-doubt, or homesickness as they adjust, and that is a normal part of the transition.
Your encouragement, reassurance, and reminders to use campus support services can make a meaningful difference, especially when stress starts to feel overwhelming.
Student Privacy
In college, grades and academic records are private under FERPA (the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). Parents cannot access this information unless the student signs a FERPA waiver.
Some students choose to sign a FERPA waiver so family members can help with finances, academic planning, or during stressful periods. This choice is optional and can be changed at any time.