What does the literature say about effective transition between the high school and post-secondary education? A disturbing number of students leave college without completing their degree or earning the credential they sought. This problem, which is especially acute for poor, minority and rural students, results in a colossal waste of talent, money, and potential productivity. Effective strategies to promote college success must include attention to academic, social-psychological, financial, and practical impediments to college completion. Fortunately, schools can play an important role in preparing students to succeed, and the earlier they start that process, the more likely it will have a positive effect on their students. Programs offered as early at the middle school have been shown to make a difference in the success rates of these students when they reach college. A list of references and online resources is included.