We started 2012 with new promises and commitments, and helping your child prepare and find the right university might have been one of those promises or commitments. For any young adult who is completing university or college, now is the time to start doing their research because application deadlines can start as early as the end of Feburary and March. As we know, time moves fast and even though these deadlines might seem far away they can easily sneak up if you’re not prepared.
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For those who haven’t already visited the university of choice, you can do so again in Feburary. Every Feburary universities host an open house for potential students. Open houses are a great way for parents and students to get a feel for the university of their choice (and other universities). As a parent being involved in the selection process is very important, and you can help make it a lot smoother. But the question is: What can you do as a parent to help guide your child to choose the right university?
Exploring the options
It’s natural as a parent to be concerned about the future of your child. One important thing to remember is that you need to be careful that you’re not dictating or swaying towards a career opportunity that you idealize or wanted – it’s about their future and their interests. Of course, you can share your thoughts, opinions and preferences, but try to keep them balanced and to help your child identify their own interests. This method can also help your child to learn and identify what they want for their future, and what career they would like pursue.
Admission Process
The admission process is very important because one mistake could jeopardize their application or submission to the university of their choice. To avoid this problem make sure to follow all instructions on the admission carefully. In addition, it’s important to work on the application sooner than later because if you miss the deadline the application will be passed on to the second round of registration.
After you’ve read all the instructions and written in your child’s basic information, the next step will be to have your child choose three programs they would like to study. However, you must make sure your child is eligible for the programs before hand. You check their eligibility, based on the R rating (formely known as Z score) to find out if they match-up to the programs requirements.
In the event that the rating is close, but not exact, encourage your child to apply anyway. However, it should be noted that the average required to be accpected is usually the lowest score the program will allow.
In addition, the ratings vary according to the university, so if your child is really interested in one specific program, we suggest applying to numerous universities who have the same or similiar program available.
Your role as a parent
Over recent years program enrollment and requirements have changed. It is always good to see what services and courses are offered by various universities that reflect your child’s interest. Most universities have online applications as well.
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Children grow and the role of the parent has changed. However, it is your responsbility to make sure your child is going down the road of success. Your confidence and support of their choices is very, very important. Here are keywords to helping you develop a supportative attitude:
- Listen and Advise
- Support
- Encourage
- Open-minded
- Non-judgemental
Confidentiality of records
In general, when your child applies to university they are seen as an adult through the eyes of the Canadian law. Thus, all the responsibilities and privileges under its jurisdiction. Under the laws that apply, universities must guarantee confidentiality of all records and submissions to their programs.
It is important to explain to your child what this means for them, and help them with the process, but do not control it completely. Everyone should learn how to apply to a university on their own at some point.
If you want more information, many universities have a section that speaks directly to parents. They also will are always available for questions. Make sure that you understand the process good so you can help your child through the process even better.
