CEP CEP College Planning Process & Timeline

Question 1

When should a student ideally begin working with a Certified Educational Planner on college planning?

Accepted Answer

In 8th or 9th grade

Answer

During senior year fall semester

Answer

At the start of junior year

Answer

After receiving SAT/ACT scores

Question 2

Which standardized test timeline is most advisable for students seeking college admission as recommended by CEPs?

Accepted Answer

First attempt in spring of junior year, with opportunity to retake in fall of senior year

Answer

Take SAT/ACT only once in senior year

Answer

Take only the SAT, not the ACT

Answer

Wait for PSAT results before registering for SAT

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of a college list 'balance' strategy used by CEPs?

Accepted Answer

To categorize schools into reach, target, and likely tiers based on a student's profile

Answer

To ensure geographic diversity

Answer

To limit applications to no more than five schools

Answer

To prioritize schools with the lowest tuition

Question 4

Which activity is most critical during a student's sophomore year in a comprehensive college planning timeline?

Accepted Answer

Exploring interests, taking the PSAT, and identifying academic strengths

Answer

Submitting early action applications

Answer

Requesting teacher recommendation letters

Answer

Finalizing a college list

Question 5

A CEP advises a student to visit colleges before finalizing their list. What is the best type of visit for authentic insight?

Accepted Answer

Scheduled open house with a campus tour and class sit-in

Answer

Virtual tour only

Answer

Drive-by view of campus buildings

Answer

Review of the college's Instagram page

Question 6

What does a CEP typically recommend regarding college application essays?

Accepted Answer

Begin drafting essays in summer before senior year and tailor supplemental essays per school

Answer

Recycle the same generic essay for all schools

Answer

Focus only on listing achievements without personal narrative

Answer

Keep essays under 100 words for brevity