When should families begin college consulting for their children?

The most successful families we’ve worked with began college consulting by freshman or sophomore year of high school, and some even as early as middle school. Early planning allows ambitious students to build a strong academic foundation, pursue meaningful extracurriculars, and position themselves for success before application season. Families that begin the process early often experience less stress because there is more time to develop a strategic admissions roadmap. This includes choosing the right courses, preparing for standardized tests, identifying leadership opportunities, and building a unique profile. Starting early maximizes opportunities and helps ensure students stand out in the competitive Ivy League and top-tier admissions landscape.