<p>I don't worry about "maturity issues" if, by that, one means making foolish choices such as binge drinking. I would worry if my S had health issues, for example, that needed to be attended to.
My S has learned about some aspects of academic life, such as the need to start doing research for a paper early enough to give himself time to write, revise, change topic if necessary, and so forth. This is a lesson that many students learn the hard way in their freshman year. His high school did not provide him enough opportunities to write long papers, so I insisted he participate in activities such as National History Day. He's also gotten used to the red tape necessary to get into certain courses, get grades onto his transcript, etc...</p>
<p>Parents may be concerned about their child entering college a bit early and therefore seek what looks to be the most supportive environment for a 16-year old. But the 16-year old does not stay the same age and what seemed supportive at 16 may feel constricting at 18.</p>
<p>I started college at 17, and I agree with bookworm that once accepted, age and SAT scores are of little concern. I was in-state, but not at-home. I had worked at summer camps, so had experienced being away from the nest. I had a great time and was absolutely ready to be away from home and at college.</p>
<p>That said, each child is unique and I'm sure some at 16 are ready and some at 20 still aren't.</p>
<p>My son went at 16 and was the youngest kid in the dorm his freshman year at MIT. </p>
<p>And this year too. (It was a big deal when he turned 18 this year!)</p>
<p>Doesn't seem to have slowed him down any. His b'day is late Sept and he skipped his senior year of HS. It was his idea--I tried to talk him out of it.</p>
<p>But MIT does have a minor set of procedures in place for dealing with "young freshmen." His RA is aware of his age, for example, as are his housemasters. </p>
<p>Yes, his room is a pit whenever I visit. His clothes are clean, however. He has a group of wonderful friends who range in age from 18 to about 25. His grades are excellent. </p>
<p>I was sure he wasn't ready for college--but also worried what would happen if I held him back. All in all, I'm thrilled he went.</p>
<p>You asked what prompted us (or her) to have my daughter apply at her current age. I am afraid it happened by default rather than by designed. We relocated from Europe several years ago where she had skipped fourth grade. Due to the different cut-off date there and here, she ended up in a grade with other kids that were one to two years older. She now is a senior like all the other college applicants.</p>
<p>Dear everybody,</p>
<p>Thank you very much for sharing your opinions, experiences and insights. It was most helpful and I truly appreciate it.</p>