For many individuals, opportunities for higher education in America are unknown. To meet the long-existing demand for guidance in this area, this volume instructs professionals in all facets of college advising. It shows advisers (school-based counselors, teachers, administrators, and independent counselors) how to motivate and prepare students to succeed in college. A detailed curriculum for advising about the college selection and admission processes is presented, as are specific strategies for working with special populations, such as students from culturally and socially diverse backgrounds, and students with disabilities. The book features seven sections: Part I examines ways to motivate students to pursue postsecondary education, while Part II describes three areas of planning which will provide students with numerous options for higher education. The variety of opportunities are discussed in Part III, and Part IV explains the college admission process and outlines how to help students choose among various admission options and prepare for national college admission tests. Part V considers specific populations, and Part VI profiles programs, organizations, and publications necessary for continued professional growth and development. The last section consolidates all these advising practices to provide the basis for a plan for elementary through senior-high advising. Twenty-five appendixes include: noncollege educational opportunities focusing on career training; regional information offices for student financial aid; sample criteria for college selection; selected computer software for the college search process; guidelines for the traditionally underrepresented in higher education; organizations offering scholarships to people with disabilities; selected contests and competitions, and statement on counselor competencies. (Contains an index.) (RJM)