College Planning FAQ | College Planning ABC

Question 1

What does College Planning ABC do?

Accepted Answer

We guide families through every step of the college planning process — from course selection and extracurricular strategy in middle and high school, to choosing the right colleges, completing applications, and securing the maximum financial aid, grants, and scholarships available. We also offer financial and estate planning to help families protect their wealth while funding college.

Question 2

Do you work with families outside California?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While we're based in San Jose, CA, we work with families across the United States. All consultations can be conducted virtually, so no matter where you are, you get the same personalized guidance.

Question 3

When should we start working with a college planner?

Accepted Answer

The earlier, the better. Ideally, families start in 8th or 9th grade so we can help shape course selections, build a strong extracurricular profile, and position your student for the most competitive schools and the most financial aid. That said, we can add significant value even if your student is already a junior or senior.

Question 4

Do you offer tutoring?

Accepted Answer

Tutoring is the one thing we don't do. Our focus is on the strategic side of college planning — admissions strategy, essay drafting and editing, course and activity planning, college selection, applications, and financial aid — not subject-matter tutoring. We're happy to refer you to trusted tutoring resources if needed.

Question 5

Do you help with college essays?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Essay support is one of the most valuable parts of what we do. We help students identify compelling topics, develop their unique voice, draft their essays, and refine them through editing. A strong personal statement can make a significant difference in admissions outcomes — especially at selective schools where grades and test scores alone don't set applicants apart.

Question 6

How do you help with college admissions?

Accepted Answer

We work with your student on every aspect of the admissions process: selecting the right mix of reach, match, and safety schools; crafting a compelling application narrative; drafting and editing essays; preparing for interviews; and managing deadlines. We help your student present their strongest self to admissions committees.

Question 7

Do you help with class selections for high school students?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work closely with high school students to select the right courses that will strengthen their college admissions profile. This means identifying the AP, IB, honors, and elective classes that align with their academic interests, target schools, and intended major — so every course they take is purposeful and positions them as a competitive applicant. The right class choices in 9th and 10th grade can make a significant difference by the time applications are submitted.

Question 8

How do you help with course and class selection?

Accepted Answer

We review your student's academic goals and target schools, then recommend the right mix of AP, IB, honors, and elective courses to build a competitive transcript. We also help balance rigor with manageability so your student can excel — not just survive — their high school years.

Question 9

How do you help with extracurricular activities?

Accepted Answer

Colleges want to see depth, not just a long list of clubs. We help students identify activities that align with their genuine interests and future goals, then build a narrative around those activities that stands out in applications. We also advise on leadership opportunities and community involvement that strengthen the overall profile.

Question 10

How much can families realistically save on college costs?

Accepted Answer

Our clients have saved anywhere from tens of thousands to over $200,000 over four years. Results vary based on income, assets, the schools your student applies to, and how early you start planning. One family saved $246,260 over four years at the University of San Francisco. Another received 50% off tuition at Chapman University. We work to maximize every dollar available to your family.

Question 11

What is the difference between need-based and merit-based aid?

Accepted Answer

Need-based aid is awarded based on your family's financial situation — income, assets, and household size. Merit-based aid is awarded based on your student's academic achievements, talents, or other qualities, regardless of financial need. We help families pursue both, and we know which schools are most generous with each type.

Question 12

Do you help with the FAFSA and CSS Profile?

Accepted Answer

Yes — this is one of the core services we provide. We walk families through completing the FAFSA and CSS Profile accurately and strategically, and we work with you to maximize the aid your family receives. Small mistakes or missed opportunities on these forms can cost families thousands of dollars. We make sure every form is completed correctly and that your family's financial picture is presented in the most favorable light within the rules.

Question 13

Can middle and high income families qualify for financial aid?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many middle and high income families assume they won't qualify for aid and never apply — leaving significant money on the table. With the right planning and school selection strategy, families earning well above the national average can still receive substantial grants and scholarships. This is one of the most common misconceptions we help families overcome.

Question 14

What is financial planning in the context of college?

Accepted Answer

College financial planning means structuring your family's assets and income in a way that maximizes aid eligibility while protecting your long-term financial health. This includes reviewing savings accounts, retirement funds, business assets, and other holdings to understand how they affect your Student Aid Index (SAI) and what adjustments — made well in advance — can improve your aid package.

Question 15

Why does estate planning matter for college costs?

Accepted Answer

Estate planning and college planning are more connected than most families realize. How assets are titled, how trusts are structured, and how inheritance is handled can all affect your financial aid eligibility. We help families coordinate their estate plan with their college funding strategy so they're not inadvertently disqualifying themselves from aid they deserve.

Question 16

Do I need to have an estate plan already in place to work with you?

Accepted Answer

No. We work with families at all stages — whether you have a comprehensive estate plan, a basic will, or nothing in place yet. We'll assess your current situation and make recommendations that serve both your college funding goals and your broader financial legacy.

Question 17

What is the investment for working with College Planning ABC?

Accepted Answer

The investment varies based on the services your family needs. Financial Aid and Financial Planning Packages start at $2,500. Service packages range from $5,888 for transfer students up to $26,888 for our White Glove service, which includes 25+ colleges — including Ivy League institutions — and unlimited service hours. Pricing within that range depends on the number of colleges you're applying to, the type of schools being considered, and the length of time we work together.

Because we limit the number of families we take on each year to ensure every family receives the attention they deserve, all packages require an application process to apply for a spot. Capacity is limited, and we are selective about the families we partner with.

Question 18

How do we get started?

Accepted Answer

The first step is a free consultation with Manuel, where he will review your family's unique situation and determine which packages best suit your needs. We'll learn about your student, your family's goals, and your financial situation, then outline a personalized plan. Because we limit the number of families we take on each year, all packages include an application process to apply for a spot — we want to make sure we're the right fit for each other. You can reach us through the contact form on this site or by calling (408) 918-3068.

College Planning Questions, Answered

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