7 Tips for Parents of College-Bound High School Seniors

Senior year of high school is exciting, stressful, and, let’s be honest… a little chaotic. One day, your teen is full of motivation and knocking out applications like a pro, and the next, they’re kicking back because “senioritis” hit early (we wrote a whole blog post on that — trust us, it’s real).

The good news? It’s not too late for your student to get everything done and set themselves up for success in the college admissions process. Having a plan is key, so this is where you come in.

Here are some tips to keep your high school senior on track, while still keeping your sanity.

1. Take the Test (If They Haven’t Already)

SAT and ACT dates sneak up fast and registration deadlines are strict. Even if your student has their heart set on one school, test scores can play a big role in scholarships and admissions opportunities. If they’ve already tested but aren’t happy with their scores, fall is the perfect time for a retake. Encourage them to give it one last shot; sometimes just a few extra points can open new doors.

2. Keep Up the Hard Work in Class

We know, we know… senior year feels like coasting season. But remind your teen that colleges do see senior year transcripts. A noticeable dip in grades might raise red flags for admissions officers, while an improvement can actually make them stand out in a good way. So while “senioritis” may be contagious, keeping up good study habits is the best way to go.

3. Get Organized with Deadlines

Whether your student is applying to one college or ten, deadlines are everything. Create a spreadsheet or planner to keep track of application due dates, essay prompts, financial aid forms, and campus visit opportunities. In Rhode Island alone, schools have very different requirements, so having all the info in one place helps your senior stay on top of it all (and prevents last-minute panic at 11:59 PM).

4. Attend Info Sessions and Tours

Seeing a college in person makes a huge difference. Encourage your student to go on tours, attend admissions events, and ask questions. It’s the best way for them to picture themselves on campus. Many RI schools offer fall tours and special events, so check websites for details.

Bonus: College fairs and school-sponsored events can help them explore multiple schools in one afternoon. Be on the lookout for the RISLA College Planning Center’s Annual College Fair!

5. Ask for Letters of Recommendation Early

Teachers, counselors, and coaches receive many requests for recommendation letters. Encourage your teen to ask early and be thoughtful about who they ask. A rushed recommendation isn’t nearly as strong as one written with time and care.

Pro tip: Remind your student to send a thank-you note afterward (it goes a long way in showing appreciation).

6. Be Ready for Decisions and Surprises

Applications don’t just end with “submit.” Some colleges may ask for interviews. Others might send unexpected scholarship offers. And then comes the big decision-making season in the spring, when you're weighing financial aid packages, campus fit, and your student’s goals. Keep an open mind, help them think through options, and try not to stress if plans shift along the way.

7. Encourage Balance

Between applications, schoolwork, part-time jobs, and activities, your senior might feel stretched thin. Encourage them to set aside time for rest, fun, and family, too. A healthy balance prevents burnout and keeps their mental health in check, which is just as important as hitting deadlines.

Final Thoughts

Your student’s senior year will fly by faster than you think. Between the stress of applications and the excitement of “what’s next", it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with organization, support, and a little humor along the way, you’ll both get through it.  And hey, at least you won’t have to nag them about cleaning their room for much longer… dorm life will take care of that.

Need more guidance? The RISLA College Planning Center offers free, one-on-one help with everything from applications to financial aid. Schedule your appointment here. We’re here to make the process easier for both you and your student!