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

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Recent Articles

ParentingWhy “Networking” May Not Be What You Think It Is – And How to Help Your Student Do It Well
June 21, 2026

Why “Networking” May Not Be What You Think It Is – And How to Help Your Student Do It Well

It feels forced, awkward, and a little transactional. Something you do when you need something, not something you build over time. That framing is problematic. Because what hiring managers understand,…
ParentingSupporting Younger Siblings When an Older Child Leaves
June 21, 2026

Supporting Younger Siblings When an Older Child Leaves

The period leading up to college isn’t just a time of transition for the student who’s leaving and for their parents. It’s often the first time that younger siblings begin…
Using Your 529Trump Accounts vs. 529 Plans: Key Differences
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Trump Accounts vs. 529 Plans: Key Differences

Families have a new child savings option to consider. But before parents assume Trump Accounts and 529 plans are the same thing, understand how each one is designed to work—and…

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