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

ParentingExhaling as Your Collegebound Teen Takes Flight
May 4, 2026

Exhaling as Your Collegebound Teen Takes Flight

From campus tours and application season to financial aid forms and the long wait for admissions decisions, to the painstaking task of deciding which school to attend and how to…
ParentingSenior Student15 Items to Take Care of Before Your Student Leaves for College
May 4, 2026

15 Items to Take Care of Before Your Student Leaves for College

What to do before your freshman leaves home for college: A Way to Transfer Money: You may or may not need to give your student funds during the semester, but…
Using Your 529Apprenticeships and 529 Plans: More Ways to Pay for Education
April 15, 2026

Apprenticeships and 529 Plans: More Ways to Pay for Education

Career training and apprenticeship programs are growing in popularity—and many families are surprised to learn that 529 college savings plans can help support these pathways, too. What a 529 Plan…

Your College and Career

Planning Hub

College Countdown brings together practical tools and trusted guidance to help families prepare for college with confidence.

Start Exploring!