Getty Images
In January, colleges and universities across the country experienced record-breaking numbers of college applications. UCLA reported a stunning 61,498 applications, and Columbia University received a record 34,587, a 32% increase over last year. The increasing cost of a college education and the struggle to pay for those four years are clearly not slowing down the number of college applicants. On the contrary, the competition for a spot in selective colleges is very high, making the college application process quite stressful for both parents and students. So, why not get an early head start?








