The weeks leading up to college move-in can feel like a blur of emotions and to-dos. To help you stay on track (and avoid last-minute stress), here’s a weekly countdown calendar with what to do, what to buy, and what to talk about—all in manageable steps.

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6 Weeks Before Move-In: Get Organized

• ✅ Confirm housing assignment & roommate info
• ✅ Review important college dates (orientation, move-in day, tuition deadlines)
• ✅ Schedule doctor appointments, dentist, eye exams, and needed vaccinations
• ✅ Begin financial planning (open student bank account, set a college budget)
• ✅ Talk about communication expectations—how often you’ll check in

📝 Tip: Start a shared digital packing checklist with your student.

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5 Weeks Before Move-In: Shop Smart

• ✅ Begin dorm shopping—focus on essentials first (bedding, storage, laundry)
• ✅ Check what’s not allowed in the dorm
• ✅ Order any backordered or custom items early
• ✅ Look for deals during summer sales and tax-free weekends

📝 Tip: Don’t overbuy—most dorm rooms are small, and your student can always buy more later.

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4 Weeks Before Move-In: Take Care of the Paperwork

• ✅ Make copies of health insurance card, ID, and important documents
• ✅ Upload required health forms and immunization records
• ✅ Review and sign FERPA waiver (if your student is comfortable sharing info)
• ✅ Talk about safety, campus resources, and how to ask for help

📝 Tip: Store digital backups of key documents in a shared folder or cloud app.

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3 Weeks Before Move-In: Have the Money Talk

• ✅ Finalize how tuition, books, and personal expenses will be paid
• ✅ Review credit card or debit card access and spending limits
• ✅ Discuss how to handle unexpected expenses
• ✅ Encourage your student to check their college email daily

📝 Tip: Teach your student how to read a tuition bill and where their money is going.

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2 Weeks Before Move-In: Pack with Purpose

• ✅ Do a trial pack to see what fits—and what doesn’t
• ✅ Label bins or boxes by category
• ✅ Buy toiletries, laundry supplies, and over-the-counter meds
• ✅ Schedule any final haircuts, eye exams, or errands

📝 Tip: Include some comfort items from home—photos, a blanket, snacks.

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1 Week Before Move-In: Savor the Time

• ✅ Do something fun together—take a trip, have a family dinner, relax
• ✅ Let your student take the lead on final packing
• ✅ Prep any emotional goodbye notes or gifts
• ✅ Finalize travel and move-in logistics

📝 Tip: This week isn’t about cramming more in—it’s about connecting before the next chapter begins.

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Move-In Day: Keep It Calm

• ✅ Let your student take the lead in setting up their space
• ✅ Take a few photos (but not too many!)
• ✅ Keep the goodbye brief, positive, and reassuring
• ✅ Trust that they are ready—and so are you

📝 Tip: It’s okay to cry after you leave. You’ve both come a long way.