🎓 What Parents Should Know About the Upcoming College Application Year (2025–2026)

As the 2025–2026 college admissions cycle begins, many families are already feeling the pressure. For parents of rising high school seniors, this is a pivotal year—and understanding the changing landscape of college applications is key to helping your student succeed without being overwhelmed.

Here’s a breakdown of what parents need to know to stay informed, organized, and supportive throughout this process.

🗓️ Important Dates and Deadlines

Mark your calendars—these milestones matter:

• Common App Opens: August 1, 2025

• FAFSA Opens: Expected in October 2025 (official date still pending)

• Early Action/Early Decision Deadlines: October–November 2025

• Regular Decision Deadlines: January 1–15, 2026

• Financial Aid Priority Deadlines: Usually between December 2025 and February 2026

• College Decision Day: May 1, 2026

Tip: Start gathering documents (transcripts, test scores, letters of recommend, and tax returns) early so you’re not scrambling when deadlines hit.

🧪 The SAT/ACT Landscape Is Still Shifting

Test-optional policies remain widespread, but the trend may be reversing at selective institutions. Schools like MIT and Dartmouth have reinstated testing requirements, citing predictive value in student success.

What this means for your student:

• Don’t assume tests aren’t needed. Check every college’s policy.

• Encourage testing in summer or early fall of senior year (if not already done).

• Consider superscoring policies, which let colleges use the best section scores from multiple test dates.

  
  

🧾 FAFSA Changes: What You Should Know

Last year’s FAFSA overhaul brought new terminology and unexpected delays. The updated Student Aid Index (SAI) replaces the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), and families now submit fewer questions—but must link IRS data directly.

For 2025:

• FAFSA is expected in October, but stay alert—delays could return and there are significant changes expected at the Department of Education.

• Use colleges’ Net Price Calculators to estimate costs early.

• Stay in touch with financial aid offices as preferred institutions - they are on the front lines of navigating federal and state funding and they want your student....

  
  

✍️ Essays in the Age of AI

With ChatGPT and other AI tools widely available, colleges are looking for authentic student voices more than ever. Many institutions are adding questions or using software to flag AI-generated content.

Encourage your student to:

• Start early and write their own drafts

• Reflect deeply on personal experiences and growth

• Use AI only for brainstorming—not full writing

• Present a personal perspective

📊 The Application Boom Continues

Application numbers are up nationwide, which makes it harder to predict outcomes, but that doesn’t mean your student is out of luck. Applications are also up for scholarships which private options are dwindling. Start early, apply to everything even remotely related to preferred school, program or degree.

• Build a balanced college list with reach, match, and likely options

• Focus on fit, not just rankings

• Highlight unique strengths in essays and activities

• Keep an eye on "free application opportunities" and apply to as many schools as you are likely to attend - you never know how financial aid packages will shake out

  
  

💰 Financial Planning Tips for Families

College affordability is often the biggest concern.

Be proactive:

• Discuss budget and financial boundaries before applications are sent

• Research merit scholarships, which often require separate applications - institutional money will likely require a FAFSA on file!

• Submit FAFSA + CSS Profile (if required) early to maximize aid opportunities

Some schools award aid on a first-come, first-served basis—so time matters.

✅ A Parent’s Checklist for the Year Ahead

Here’s how to stay supportive without taking over:

• Track application deadlines using a shared calendar

• Support test prep or test-free strategy, based on college list

• Review financial documents in advance of FAFSA season

• Visit campuses (in-person or virtually)

• Encourage independence—this is your student’s journey

• Stay grounded—college is just the beginning, not the end goal

Can I help with your essays and applications? Feel free to reach out for a consult - August is nearly here and booked!

What's new with the Common Data Set for Fall 2025 Admissions?

If you’re navigating the college admissions process for Fall 2025—whether as a student, parent, counselor, or researcher—you’re likely wondering when the latest Common Data Set (CDS) will be available and what it means for you. Here's what you need to know.

📘 What Is the Common Data Set?

The Common Data Set is a standardized set of data points that colleges and universities report each year. It includes key information like:

• Acceptance rates

• Average test scores

• Class sizes

• Financial aid statistics

• Graduation and retention rates

It’s a goldmine for comparing colleges objectively and making informed decisions.

🗓️ Where We Are Now: Summer 2025

As of June 2025, the Fall 2025 Common Data Sets have not yet been released by most institutions. While the 2024–2025 CDS template is publicly available (defining what schools will report), finalized data is still in progress across campuses. Colleges typically release this information after fall enrollment numbers stabilize, so the finalized Fall 2025 CDS reports are expected to be published between late summer and early fall 2025.

🛠️ What You Can Do in the Meantime

• Download the 2024–2025 CDS Template to see what will be reported. This helps you understand the categories and terminology before new data is released.

• Bookmark the CDS page for your target colleges and check back in July–September.

• Reach out to a college’s Institutional Research Office if the CDS hasn’t been updated by early fall. Some are slow to post but will share data upon request.

• Use past years’ CDS data (Fall 2023 or Fall 2024) as a rough reference for trends in admissions and aid.

  
  

🔍 Why the CDS Still Matters in Test-Optional Times

Even as standardized testing becomes optional at many institutions, the CDS remains a reliable tool to:

• Compare admit rates and yield

• Analyze institutional priorities

• Gauge class size and faculty engagement

• Understand real cost through aid reporting

Whether you're comparing a public university in the Midwest or a private college on the East Coast, the CDS offers a transparent window into what colleges actually deliver.

🧭 Final Thoughts

The Common Data Set for Fall 2025 isn’t fully available just yet—but it’s coming soon. Expect major updates to roll out from late summer into early fall 2025, with earlier access at some proactive schools.

If you want to make strategic college decisions, now is the time to prepare: learn how to read the CDS, track your top schools, and watch for updates.

Want help interpreting a college’s Common Data Set once it’s released? I’d be happy to help! Reach out to me here.

Settling into college life and your upcoming sophomore year

As summer approaches, the excitement of college life and the anticipation of your first break as a college student become real. This summer, sandwiched between your freshman and sophomore years, offers a unique chance to reflect on past experiences while gearing up for new adventures. Perhaps you will work over the summer or maybe take a well-deserved break? Regardless, this first summer "back home" offers unique opportunities for personal growth and career exploration.

Reflection on Freshman Year

Your first year of college is often a whirlwind of new experiences—friendships, late-night study sessions, and a taste of independence. As summer rolls in, take a moment to reflect on what you learned during this transformative year. What or who shaped your college journey the most?

Think back to those late-night discussions with roommates that solidified your friendships. Remember the stress of finals that taught you resilience? Even minor events, like discovering a favorite study spot, can serve as important lessons. Consider the details that made your first year experience positive and those moments that maybe weren't so great...what will you take into your sophomore year?

Reassessing Academic Goals

For many students, sophomore year is when decisions about career paths or academic majors are finalized. This can be stressful! Consider the classes you took during your first year and if they inspired you to continue. Or, did some classes help you realize that career or academic path is not for you? Use the summer months to connect with academic advisors or classmates to discuss your future options. Engaging in conversations can provide insights into new opportunities or realign your focus.

Consider enrolling in a summer course, either online or at a local community college. According to a study from the National Center for Education Statistics, students who take summer classes tend to have higher GPAs. This could reinforce your commitment to your current major or introduce you to academic fields that intrigue you, like psychology if you’re interested in understanding human behavior.

Exploring Summer Opportunities

Summer break isn’t just a pause from classes - it’s a prime opportunity to explore hands-on experiences. Seek internships, volunteer positions, or part-time jobs that relate to your interests and career goals. Gaining practical experience can be invaluable. Research shows that 70% of internships lead to full-time job offers, making this an excellent time to gain skills and make connections.

Networking in these roles can help you meet industry professionals and gather insights that will shape your long-term career trajectory. For instance, if you're studying marketing, working with a local business can provide real-world knowledge and a chance to apply classroom concepts.

Building Relationships

Don’t overlook the importance of building and maintaining relationships this summer. Strengthening bonds with college friends and nurturing connections with family can provide emotional support when times get tough. Consider hosting a barbecue or heading out for a fun day with friends from your freshman year.

Prioritizing Personal Development

Summer is also a perfect time for personal growth. Returning home to see "old friends" may also reignite interest in sports or hobbies. Whether it’s joining a local club, attending workshops, or indulging in fun novels, personal development plays a key role in enhancing your college experience. With any luck, you'll return to campus in the fall ready to succeed academically!

Preparing Financially

As you gear up for sophomore year, assessing your financial health is no small task. Create a budget that aligns with your lifestyle needs for the upcoming school year. Consider expenses like tuition, textbooks, housing, and social outings. Perhaps you'll need to renew or re-apply for scholarships during the summer months. Be sure to review any institutional aid offered freshman year and complete renewal packages by deadlines. The average college student spends about $1,240 on textbooks and supplies each year, so plan accordingly - summer is an excellent time to work, apply and save money!

Looking to the Future

As summer draws to a close, it’s time to anticipate what your sophomore year holds. Prepare to face new challenges and embrace more responsibilities in your academic and personal life.

Start gathering necessary textbooks and organizing your supplies to avoid the chaotic back-to-school rush in the fall. Set specific goals for what you want to achieve academically and socially. Write these down and keep them visible to remind yourself of your ambitions.

Need assistance with college planning? Feel free to contact me to discuss how Aspen Ed can support your student's goals after high school.