High School Counselor Report

High school counselors are at the center of the college and career planning process, helping students and families navigate one of the most important decisions they will ever make. The 2026 High School Counselor Report aims to create a shared understanding between counselors and higher education institutions about what students are asking, expecting, and experiencing during the college planning process.

Counselors offered a candid view of what they see every day: students questioning whether college is possible, families trying to make sense of financial aid and postsecondary options, and counselors working tirelessly to bring clarity to a process that often feels overwhelming. Their perspectives remind us that college planning is rarely a straight path. They shared ways in which institutions themselves can and do become trusted partners in the college planning process.

This report is a practical resource for colleges seeking to better support counselors, students, and families. It highlights opportunities to simplify complex processes, strengthen relationships, reduce uncertainty, and create resources that help people make informed decisions with greater confidence.