<p>
</p>
<p>No one is arguing that the parents do not have full control over the situation.</p>
<p>That does not mean that anyone has to approve, or that because someone has the right to make and then break a promise that it is right for someone to do so.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>If they let her apply to Columbia early decision and then changed their mind later, that does not look like a long term considered decision.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>No one is expecting that.</p>
<p>It is probably already too late for her; she is probably going to community college (unless she finds a late application date full ride scholarship somewhere or decides to do something else like join the military). But her younger sister can observe the situation and make plans accordingly.</p>