This paper addresses the problem of secondary school students who have difficulties in making early educational decisions which influence their college plans. The need to teach the vocabulary of college admissions to both parents and students, beginning in the elementary school, is emphasized. It is noted that the technical vocabulary of standardized testing used in parent conferences and in presentations and written material to parents may not be understood by the parents. Examples from college admissions materials and standardized test materials are used to illustrate the technicality of the language used. Vocabulary used in the college admissions process is presented as a technical vocabulary not taught in the classroom. The paper asserts that knowledge of this vocabulary would: (1) enable parents and students to make decisions early in the child's education; (2) allow students to face less pressure and receive more parent support; and (3) prepare parents and students to take more decision making responsibility for college plans. Paper copies of overhead slides used to illustrate points made in the paper are included. (NB)