The Parent's Role

Your student’s college search is a big decision that will affect their development as a student and as an adult. While this is an exciting time for your student, we recognize that it is a big change for your entire family! It is important that your student has your support and guidance throughout this process. Below are a few ways you can assist your student while allowing them the freedom to make this process their own.

Communication with Colleges

The key to the college search is finding the right fit. Connection to a community is a key component to your student finding success in college. Encourage your student to be the one to connect with their schools of interest. Take time to discuss with your student what they are looking for in their college experience and offer to help research some schools that fit their criteria. When it comes to reaching out to the school with questions or to schedule a visit, allow your student to drive the communication. This is vital to their growth and development as a student.

College Campus Visits

There is no better way to get a feel for campus than to visit. Campus visits are usually designed with students and parents in mind, so make a trip out of it! Plan enough time to check out both the college and the surrounding city. As you meet with staff members throughout your visit, allow for your student to explore their interests. Changing majors is part of almost every student’s experience. Encourage them to explore several! You will likely have different types of questions than your student, make sure both of you are able to get your questions answered.

Schedule a Campus Visit

College Fairs

More often than not, college fairs are one of the first opportunities you and your student will have to interact with a college. Fairs are a great way to learn about many schools in a relatively short period because they are often attended by hundreds of colleges from all over the country. These events are best utilized earlier in the search process and are a great way to start your student’s college list. Encourage your student to pick up information and fill out contact cards for any school they may be interested in. Once you are back home, you can help them narrow their search and decide on which schools to learn more about and to visit.

Important Dates

Freshmen Applicants (Students entering in Fall 2021)

August 1, 2020 – Belmont and Common Application opens

September 15, 2020 – First round of decisions mailed. We utilize a rolling admissions schedule which means once an application file becomes complete, your student should receive a decision in 1-2 weeks by mail.

October 1, 2020 – FAFSA opens

December 1, 2020 – Priority application deadline for competitive and departmental scholarship consideration. Priority FAFSA submission date.

May 1, 2021 – National Candidate Reply Date. Student must accept admission offer by this date.

July 1, 2021 – Application deadline

Transfer Applicants

August 1, 2020 – Belmont and Common Application opens (for Spring 2021 and Fall 2021)

October 1, 2020 – FAFSA opens

November 1, 2020 – Application deadline for Spring 2021 applicants

July 1, 2021 – Application deadline for Fall 2021 applicants

Meet the Dean

Dr. Chris Gage, leads all aspects of Belmont’s Enrollment Services division, including overseeing University Admissions, Student Financial Services and Belmont Central. He also serves on the Provost’s Executive Council and works collaboratively with college deans in making decisions related to University operations, strategic growth, retention practices and student success. A 18-year veteran of higher education, Gage is also an active member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling and previously served as president of the Indiana Association for College Admission Counseling. A graduate of Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business with an MBA from Xavier University, Gage received his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Higher Education from the University of Nebraska.

Watch the latest videos in Chris Gage's Video Series for Parents

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Health and Safety

Your student’s health and safety are our top priority. Whether they live on campus or off, we are committed to providing a safe community for all students. Below are some resources on what Belmont is doing to keep students safe.

Accessibility Services
Campus Security
Counseling Services
Health Services

Info for Prospective Parents

The Parent's Role

Important Dates

Meet the Dean

Health and Safety