The college admissions process may be tough on students, but this year it may be even tougher on the colleges! As the economy has shifted, the tables have turned for higher education, and it is now the schools’ turn to worry about being rejected!

R.S.V.P. A.S.A.P?

As more and more students and their families are rethinking the cost of college, many institutions are concerned that their enrollment rates will take a severe hit–and they’re not taking it lying down!

As they wait nervously for students to reply by the May 1st notification deadlines, USA Today reports that many colleges are making a push to win over potential admits. At some schools, department heads and even college presidents are making personal phone calls to encourage accepted applicants to enroll at their school. Other colleges are holding local “admit days” across the country to introduce students to all they have to offer without having to travel. Still others have upped their travel funding to fly students out to visit their campuses!

Bigger Wait Lists, Better Chances

Schools are also opting to beef up their waitlists–some are even doubling the number of students they put on these lists. While no one wants to be told to wait and wonder, these healthier-sized lists could mean better chances for more students to potentially get it. Schools are expected to be much more open to a broader range of applicants this year than in years past.

Working on Price Points

With almost a month left before your child has to commit, you may still have time to work out kinks in your student’s financial aid award. I’ve recently written about how to get a tuition discount, and as you know by now, the higher your student ranks in the applicant pool, the more likely you can improve your offer. Time is ticking, but there is still time to help your child get the best fit for the best price!

All the best,
Deborah Fox

photo by scyza