Families,

Senior parents are asking, “The early applications are in. Are we finished?” Junior parents are looking at first-quarter grades and wondering, “Are we doing enough?”

Both questions deserve a clear answer and a practical plan. November is the time to establish what needs attention, who owns each task, and when to follow up. Here are five priorities to help your family move forward with confidence.

1. Seniors: Submitting the application does not finish the job.

Colleges typically send instructions for activating an applicant portal after receiving an application. Your senior should check the email account used to apply, including spam folders, and follow those instructions.

Create one tr...