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If you’re wondering what your kid’s transition to college will look like, College Countdown is for you.

Welcome!

You’re visiting colleges. You’re sorting through acceptance letters. You’re saving for your kid’s education.

For all these reasons, College Countdown is a great resource. Of course, we can’t help you plan a graduation party, but we can address the issues you encounter as your teen prepares for college.

College Countdown is maintained by ScholarShare 529, California’s official college savings plan. They help families like yours save for higher education. That means you’re in good hands.

College Countdown has insights about admissions, student life, academic success, affording college, and parenting. We’ve been around a long time so we know a lot of pros with insight to share.

Welcome to College Countdown.

Let’s get started! To explore articles and videos relevant to your student’s transition to college, follow the links below. You’re going to love this site.

Patricia Roberts, J.D., College Savings Advocate

Parent Selfcare

For Parents of Juniors

For Parents of Seniors

Recent Articles

Affording College
September 14, 2025

The Importance of Late-Stage College Savings

Between your child’s packed schedule plus the daily demands of your family’s life, it can feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day or enough dollars to cover today’s…
Student Life
September 14, 2025

Part-Time Jobs in College: Balancing the Trade-Offs

At first glance, the answer seems obvious. A paycheck builds independence, teaches responsibility, and helps cover everyday costs. But like most things in college, it’s not that simple.For example, a…
Using Your 529
September 12, 2025

529 Withdrawals: Avoid the Pitfalls

Withdrawing funds is straightforward, but these tips can help you avoid common mistakes.* 1. Stick to qualified expenses To avoid federal income taxes and the 10% penalty on earnings, withdraw…

The Parent

Advisory Council

The Parent Advisory Council (PAC) is a group of ScholarShare 529 parents with children already using their 529 savings for college. That means they know a few things about college and are eager to share perspectives and insights with you as your teenager begins their college adventure. This is a group of parents who have been there, done that. Now, they’re ready to exchange stories with you. Meet the PAC.

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