Many parents want to step back from the college application process, but worry that their 17-year-old isn’t taking it seriously enough. Some of those worried parents will jump in and fill out applications for their kids.
Don’t do it.
I understand that it’s tempting to take control if you feel your kid is making a mistake he’s going to regret later. But college-bound kids need to develop their own initiative and independence if they want to get in and be successful at college. And if they’re mature enough to go to college, they need to be mature enough to take responsibility for the process of getting there.
If your teen isn’t exactly driving his college application process, be honest about your concerns. Tell him how excited you are about his college future. Let him know the efforts you’ve made to save for his college tuition and the sacrifices you’re willing to make to send him. I think a mature teen will appreciate how much emotional and financial investment you’re willing to make in him. He might then be a little more open to hearing your concerns about the looming deadlines and the lack of application action.
I know it’s not easy, but stepping back and letting them make the choice sets the right tone.