Advantage College Planning is a U.S.-based education consulting franchise that helps high school students and their families navigate college admissions, select the right majors, apply to schools, and maximize financial aid.

The brand was founded in 2009 by educator Brooke Daly, who began the company as a student-focused college-planning service designed to simplify the admissions process.

Advantage College Planning began franchising in 2020, giving new entrepreneurs an opportunity to launch a professional college-advising business using a proven model.

Advantage College Planning offers services such as college selection strategies, admissions application coaching, essay preparation, career and major exploration, and financial aid guidance.

It differentiates itself through structured advising programs, personalized one-on-one support, and a strong focus on helping families make informed academic and financial decisions.

Training

Advantage College Planning offers a detailed and multi-phase training program to prepare franchisees and their staff for successful center operations:

1. Initial Training Program: Franchisees receive a pre-opening training program designed for the Operations Manager and other personnel designated by the franchisor. This training covers daily operational procedures, use of consulting tools, center management, and service delivery.
2. Scheduling and Requirements: Training is offered approximately 4 to 6 times annually and typically begins 4 to 6 weeks after signing the franchise agreement. Trainees must complete key pre-opening tasks—such as securing a lease and reading the Brand Standards Manual—before attending.
3. Training Format: Instruction includes hands-on, observational, and visual learning formats, focusing on Advantage’s best practices and operational systems. It may be held at franchisor-designated locations or virtually.
4. Additional Training: Franchisees may request or be required to attend supplemental training sessions, conferences, or conventions. These may involve extra tuition fees and require covering all related expenses like travel and lodging.
5. Employee and Successor Training: Franchisees are responsible for implementing an internal employee training program. In the event of a transfer, the new operator must also complete any required training to the satisfaction of the franchisor.

Territory Protection

Advantage College Planning grants franchisees a defined protected territory, typically based on population size and geographic boundaries such as zip codes or natural features. The franchise is protected from having another brick-and-mortar Advantage College Planning Center established within its assigned territory, provided the franchisee remains in good standing.

However, the territory does not guarantee exclusivity from all forms of competition, as other franchisees or company-owned centers may still provide services to clients residing within the territory.

Franchisees are also restricted from operating or soliciting business outside of their designated territory without the franchisor’s written permission. Moreover, the franchisor retains broad reserved rights, including the ability to operate or authorize operations outside the protected area, regardless of proximity or competitive impact.