In order to understand the broad range of services you receive with a professional educational consultant, please review the answers to these frequently asked questions.

Why would someone need a college consultant?

1. College admission has become a complicated, competitive and costly process. An experienced adviser who can help clarify options available to students and assist in matching them with the right college provides an invaluable resource.

2. Some students feel that they require more individualized attention than counselors in their high school can devote to them. Many families need the convenience of an adviser that can meet with them at flexible times.

3. CEC helps reduce the stress of the college application process. Students feel better about the process when they have an action plan and a list of appropriate college choices. CEC can also act as a buffer between students and parents.

4. We help the student showcase their talents through college application essays.

5. We visit colleges to offer you first hand information.

6. We offer up-to-date financial aid information.

7. We find schools that work for you.

Am I limited to a certain number of hours with the consultant?

No. We meet as often as each student requires. We also urge the parent and student to email us with questions as they arise.

Do you fill out financial aid applications?

No. We have an understanding of how financial aid works. However, the specific forms require personal financial information that is better handled by the individual families and their financial advisers.

Do you have any influence with admission personnel at any schools that can help a particular client get admitted?

No, and professional and ethical counselors and consultants will not promise otherwise.

When should a student begin utilizing a college counselor?

It is important to start working with a college counselor as early as the eighth grade, and most certainly by the ninth grade. A college counselor can coach a student to make the most of their high school course offerings and extracurricular opportunities, as well as establish a standardized testing schedule. However, it is never too late to ask for assistance with the complex process of applying to college.