Q. How many schools should I apply to?

This varies by student, but on average most students apply to 8-12

Q. When should my student take the SAT/ACTs?

Typically, students do the bulk of their standardized college admissions testing during their junior year in high school. After the PSAT in October, a solidly academic student can take the SAT or ACT in December or January. If a college requires or strongly recommends an SAT Subject test, that should be taken in late spring of the junior year or the year the coursework was completed. Requirements change so students need to check with the schools of interest.

Q. Will you write my college essays?

The short answer is no. The essay is the student's chance to have his or her voice heard in the process. College Planning Service will do extensive brainstorming, essay guidance and give feedback with you which will enable you to craft your own articulate story, but the writing is up to you.

Q. Will I work with you or with someone else?

I work directly, one-on-one, with all of my students, guiding them through the entire college application and selection process.

Q. When should I start?

I start working with students as early as the ninth grade doing curriculum and extracurricular planning, but typically most students begin the college process in the end of tenth grade.

Q. I am in college already and wish to transfer. Can you help me?

Gladly! I have experience in the transfer process from the California community college system to the UCs, CSUs and private colleges. I also have successfully helped students transfer between four-year institutions.

Q. I live in another country. Have you helped international students obtain admission to American universities?

Yes, I have assisted students from abroad to gain admission to schools in the U.S.

Q. I want to work with you but I do not live in the San Francisco Bay Area. How would this work?

We can easily meet by telephone or Skype, and if you come to California to visit colleges, we can meet face-to face. I have worked long-distance with students in Colorado, Massachusetts and India with outstanding results. With Internet conferencing tools, miles no longer matter as much as they once did.