<p>It sure is impressive if a young teen can manage the process entirely on her own, but I think it’s often a developmental thing. My 13 year old couldn’t/wouldn’t do it all on her own last fall, but would do more of it on her own if the process were to start now, being 6 months older. Possibly almost all on her own if starting as a 9th grader, like the OP’s son. And of course my 16 year old won’t let me anywhere near the college app process.</p>
<p>I like to think that AO’s know something about child development and are looking to eliminate those that are literally being forced by their parents, rather than merely assisted in a developmentally appropriate way. But if they’re so black and white as to think any parental assistance indicates a problem, they should give the spot to someone else, because I wouldn’t want my kid at that school.</p>