Introduction.

ONE: Why Has College Admissions Become So Competitive?

TWO: What Do Selective Colleges Look for in an Applicant?

THREE: How Do Colleges Make Their Decisions?

FOUR: How Colleges (and Students) Differ: Finding What Fits.

FIVE: Where Should You Apply?

SIX: The Big Tests.

SEVEN: Deciding About Early Decision and Other Early Options.

EIGHT: Applying Well.

NINE: Paying the Bill.

TEN: Making Your Decision After the Colleges Make Theirs.

ELEVEN: What Matters Most: Advice to Parents and Students.

Epilogue.

Appendixes.

A. College Research Worksheet.

B. Common Application 2005–2006.

C. Sample Student Information Sheet for Letters of Recommendation.

D. Financial Aid Comparison Worksheet.

E. Cost of Attendance Worksheet.

College Preparation Time Line.

Glossary.

Resources.

Notes.

About the Authors.

Index.