Intended for gifted students and their parents from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, this monograph provides guidance on preparing for college, including the college search process, college application, and applying for financial aid. Sections of the guide address: (1) self-awareness (the essential starting point); (2) academic awareness (understanding how the institution of higher education evaluates potential students); (3) the college search (sources of information on colleges and universities); (4) decision-making (how to choose which institutions to apply to and then which to attend); (5) preparing for college; (6) the college admissions packet (tips on completing an admissions application); (7) the admissions essay and interview; (8) college costs (how costs are computed); (9) financial aid (sources and application procedures); (10) the admissions offer; (11) college housing and meals; and (12) support personnel available at most institutions. Each section provides general information, subsections addressed either to parents or students, checklists, and suggested resources and activities. Extensive appendices provide additional information on registration, college planning calendars for students and parents, letters, telephone techniques, questions for college representatives, resources, and early entrance programs. (DB)