Opening the application is not the same as having to complete it in one sitting. A productive first session is about setup, information and one clear next step.
Start with readiness, not pressure
Confirm that the student can access the account, has a personal email that will remain available after graduation and knows which information is still missing.
First goal:
Finish one useful section and schedule the next work session before closing the laptop.
Gather the information that slows students down
- Transcript and current courses
- Activities, work and family responsibilities
- Testing history and future dates
- Counselor and teacher information
- Preliminary college list
Use a working appointment when the process is unclear
The $75 Senior Year Strategy & Common App Kickoff gives the student a structured first plan and gives the parent a calendar and completion checklist afterward.
College requirements change. Verify current deadlines and policies directly with each college and official testing organization.