We support high school students and their parents as they plan for and apply to college. Conveniently located in downtown Menlo Park and on zoom.
We support high school students, and their parents, as they plan for and apply to college.
03/06/2026
Standardized testing works best with a plan. Begin with a diagnostic to see which test fits you best, then prepare with intention.
Focus on doing your best, rather than chasing a number. This consistent effort can often lead you to a score that aligns with your academic profile.
03/03/2026
Prestige isn’t the only measurement of a strong summer.
One of our ’26 seniors chose independent biology research over a traditional internship, where they designed their own studies, analyzed data, and presented their original findings.
Depth, curiosity, and ownership all matter when creating an impactful summer.
We’re here to be a sounding board as your own summer begins to take shape.
02/20/2026
Summer matters — not because it should be packed, but because it should be purposeful.
In the early high school years, we encourage exploration. In the later years, we focus on depth and meaningful impact. And throughout, there should always be time for family, friends, and rest.
At Avalon College Advising, we help students plan summers that are thoughtful, balanced, and aligned with their long-term goals.
11/25/2025
🎓 We’re supporting a few more seniors this season, whether you’re just starting or finalizing the last few essays.
Our team helps students submit strong, authentic applications with confidence.
✨ 85% of Avalon students get into one of their top-choice schools and every student receives an offer.
🔗 Book a spot before January 1 deadlines.
➡️ https://avaloncollegeadvising.com/
10/22/2025
Early application deadlines come fast, sometimes as early as October! ⏳
Whether you’re applying Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA), the key to success is being prepared.
Here’s how to set yourself up for an early acceptance:
✅ Research each school at the department level: curriculum, study abroad, student life.
✅ Draft and revise essays well before the deadline.
✅ Ask for recommendation letters early, teachers often have limits.
✅ Keep a detailed deadline tracker for every school.
Applying early takes more work up front, but it can pay off big when decisions arrive.
📖 See our full prep checklist: https://avaloncollegeadvising.com/how-to-prepare-for-early-applications-essays-recommendations-and-strategy/
10/08/2025
Thinking about applying early to college? 📅 Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) can give you a boost but they’re not right for everyone.
Here’s what to know before you commit:
✅ ED is binding—you’re all in if you get accepted.
✅ EA is flexible—you can apply to multiple schools and decide later.
✅ Your family’s risk tolerance plays a big role in the decision.
At Avalon, we help families weigh the pros and cons using school data, past student experiences, and your unique priorities.
📖 Read the full breakdown: https://avaloncollegeadvising.com/early-decision-vs-early-action-boost-your-chances-but-know-there-are-risks/
09/24/2025
Think scholarships only come from colleges after you're admitted? Think again.
There are thousands of independent scholarships available long before you choose a school, especially from community organizations, religious groups, and local clubs.
Our latest blog shows you how to:
📌 Find legit scholarships beyond your college list
📌 Tap into your community for high-ROI awards
📌 Stay organized and avoid scams
📌 Strengthen your application over time
Start now and make college more affordable.
🔗 Read the full guide here: https://avaloncollegeadvising.com/how-to-find-scholarships-and-make-college-more-affordable/
09/10/2025
Filing the FAFSA can unlock thousands in financial aid but only if you do it right.
Even with the new simplified form, it’s easy to make mistakes that cost you money. That’s why we created a clear guide to help you:
📌 Know when to apply and what you’ll need
📌 Avoid common FAFSA errors
📌 Understand how income and assets impact aid
📌 Maximize your eligibility from day one
This is your first step to making college more affordable.
🔗 Read the full guide here: https://avaloncollegeadvising.com/fafsa-101-your-first-step-to-securing-college-financial-aid/
09/03/2025
Just one week to go!
If your student is applying to college this fall (or preparing early), this webinar will walk your family through how to build a compelling, organized application.
📅 September 11 | 6:00 PM PT | Live on Zoom
We’ll cover the full application process, what colleges are really looking for, and how to stay on track this fall without the overwhelm.
🆓 Free to attend | Replay available
👉 Save your spot now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/demystifying-college-applications-a-step-by-step-guide-tickets-1592601717609?aff=oddtdtcreator
08/27/2025
Great grades and strong test scores? That’s just part of the picture.
A standout college application tells a cohesive story through your essays, your activities, and the way you show up on paper. This guide breaks down how to connect the dots and present yourself in the best light possible.
✔️Clarify your message
✔️Elevate your personal statement
✔️Maximize your activities list
✔️Make every section work together
This is where the details make all the difference.
🔗 Read the full guide here: https://avaloncollegeadvising.com/the-secrets-to-a-polished-college-application/
08/25/2025
Feeling overwhelmed by the college application process? Let’s simplify it together.
Join Avalon College Advising for Demystifying the College Application Process, a free, live webinar on September 11 at 6:00 PM PT.
We’ll cover:
✔️ What each part of the application is really for
✔️ How to tell a clear and authentic story
✔️ What to prioritize in September
✔️ Common mistakes to avoid and how to feel confident instead
Whether your student is a senior applying this fall or a junior planning ahead, you’ll leave with practical tools and clarity.
🆓 Free to attend | Replay available
👉 Save your spot now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/demystifying-college-applications-a-step-by-step-guide-tickets-1592601717609?aff=oddtdtcreator
08/13/2025
Senior year flies by and college application deadlines come faster than you think. That’s why we created a month-by-month breakdown of what to work on and when. From essay drafts to recommendation requests, this guide helps students stay on track without the last-minute stress.
✔️ Know what’s due each month
✔️ Understand why each step matters
✔️ Plan ahead with clarity and confidence
Don’t wait until it’s crunch time; set yourself up for success now.
🔗 Read the full guide here: https://avaloncollegeadvising.com/college-application-timeline-what-you-should-be-doing-and-when/