Class of 2027: The College Season Starts Now

If your student is a junior (Class of 2027), February 15th marks the beginning of critical college planning decisions. The choices you make this spring and summer will determine what kind of school your student attends and how much debt you'll carry.

The New Student Loan Reality

This year's federal loan changes create unprecedented risks. With parent PLUS loans capped at $20,000/year, families choosing expensive schools face a new reality:

Example: School costs $60,000/year with scholarships. You still owe $40,000.

• Parent PLUS loan: $20,000

• Student must borrow the other $20,000 (private alternative loans)

• Over 4 years: $80,000+ in student loans (on top of $22,000 federal direct loans)

• Monthly payment: $1,400-$1,500 after graduation

The remedy? High SAT scores + high GPA = better scholarships that reduce this gap.

Critical Tasks for Spring/Summer 2026

If your student has a GPA above 3.6 (unweighted), these are TOP priorities:

1. SAT Prep + Testing

   Take the SAT in spring of junior year—not fall of senior year when students are more nervous. High scores from spring testing consistently outperform senior year attempts. High SAT scores = scholarship money for high-GPA students.

2. Properly Balanced Application List

   Work with someone experienced to build a list that includes affordable schools, not just dream schools. We offer free planning sessions—contact us.

3. Application Delivery Plan

   Even now, map out when you'll submit applications. Early planning prevents senior year chaos.

4. College Essays

   Start with someone skilled. Getting a strong first draft done early relieves fall pressure.

5. Strategic College Visits

   Visit schools where your GPA already qualifies for merit money and strong career prospects—not just schools you'd "like" to attend.

Time Competition

Your student faces competing demands:

• Athletics (year-round in many areas)

• Performing arts commitments

• Part-time work

• Family travel and activities

• Joint custody schedules (limited work time with other parent)

• Social outings (necessary but must be balanced)

• College tours (can take time from grades)

Every choice matters. If your student has a high GPA, don't let activities prevent SAT prep and application work.

When: Sunday, February 22nd | 5:30-7:00 PM

Topics:

• SAT: To Be or Not To Be?

• How to Spend Your Summer Wisely

• 7 Time Destroyers for Students

• FAFSA Preparation

• Much more + surprise affordable college partner presentation

This comprehensive session will help you navigate the critical decisions ahead.

Don't wait until senior year to think about affordability, application strategy, and time management. The decisions you make this spring determine your student's college experience and financial future.

Schedule a free college planning session with us to review your student's transcript and build a smart application list. Email us for an appointment—available nationwide via Zoom or in-person at our Family Life Center.

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