Video Title: Parents: Here is what you need to be doing
Video ID: NWTrqbravhc
Video URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWTrqbravhc
Export Date: 2026-06-01 18:56:53
Channel: College Admissions Counselors - egelloC 
Format: markdown
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**What Parents Need to Know to Support Their Students Through College Admissions and Financial Aid**

Hello parents and guardians! Coach David here, bringing you essential guidance on how to best support your students throughout the college admissions and financial aid process. Whether you're new to this or have been through it before, understanding your role and the steps ahead is crucial for both you and your student’s success.

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### Understanding Your Role: The Student is Going to College, Not You

One of the most important things to remember is that it’s your student who will be attending college. While you’ve been their guide and support system for years, this is their journey toward adulthood and independence. Letting go a bit and allowing them to take ownership is key to maintaining a healthy relationship and empowering them to make decisions that align with their goals and interests.

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### Stay Informed, But Don’t Take Over

Parents should stay informed about the college admissions process, including deadlines, requirements like letters of recommendation or standardized tests, and any changes that schools announce. Use your experience to gather information and share it with your student, but avoid doing the work for them. Encourage open discussions about their college choices and respect their preferences.

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### Helping Without Hovering: Practical Ways to Support

- **Organize Logistics:** Help create timelines, shared calendars, or checklists to track application progress. This keeps everyone on the same page without taking control.
- **Collaborate on Tasks:** Identify tasks for both you and your student. For example, parents often need to sign financial aid forms, while students focus on essays and applications.
- **Avoid Being Overbearing:** When discussing college choices or essays, listen carefully to your student’s goals and preferences. Don’t push them toward schools or plans that reflect your own wishes or experiences.

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### Authenticity Is Key in Essays

College essays should reflect the student’s voice and story, not what parents think would impress admissions officers. Support brainstorming and idea development, but let the student write their personal statement authentically. Admissions committees want to see genuine growth and individuality, not recycled stories or parental input.

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### Financial Conversations: Be Realistic and Transparent

Money is a critical part of the college process. Have honest conversations about your family’s budget and what is realistically affordable. Avoid the mindset of "we’ll figure it out" because relying on retirement savings or home equity can cause stress later on. Align college choices with financial realities to avoid surprises.

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### Key Financial Aid Tips for Parents

- **File Taxes Early:** For students graduating in 2026, make sure 2024 taxes are filed early to meet financial aid deadlines.
- **Understand the Financial Aid Systems:** FAFSA, CSS Profile, IDOC, and school-specific portals all require parental involvement. Keep track of login information and deadlines.
- **Know the Costs:** Average yearly costs vary widely:
  - California State Universities (CSU): ~$30,000
  - University of California (UC): ~$45,000
  - Private Colleges: $60,000 to $105,000 (average around $90,000)
  
Understanding these can help families plan realistically.

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### Important Financial Aid News

Starting May 5th, the government will begin reclaiming money from people who default on student loans by garnishing tax returns or benefits like Social Security and Medicare. This affects about 5 million people and contributes to the broader student debt crisis. Stay tuned for ongoing updates.

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### Resources to Help You and Your Student

Coach David’s team offers several programs to assist families through this process:

- **College App Intensive:** A series of one-day and two-day workshops from April through September to help students brainstorm, draft, and finalize college applications.
- **Financial Aid Edge:** Personalized financial aid consultations to maximize aid eligibility.
- **College Admissions Summit:** A free, full-day online event on May 10th covering admissions strategies, essays, financial aid, and activities.

For more information or to register, visit [eagleok.com/summit](http://eagleok.com/summit).

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### Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Remember, supporting your student means empowering them to take responsibility, staying informed yourself, and maintaining open, honest communication. If you need personalized help, don’t hesitate to reach out.

- Text **MONEY** to 949-775-0865 for financial aid consultations.
- Text **COLLEGE** to 949-775-0865 for college app intensive or coaching program info.
- Scan available QR codes for direct access to booking and resources.

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Thank you for spending time to learn how to best support your student during this pivotal time. Stay patient, stay informed, and enjoy watching your student embark on this exciting new chapter!

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*Coach David and the EagleOK Team*  
Helping You Crack the College Code!