Paper and pen? Forget about it! Nowadays, students can choose — and apply to – the colleges of their choice with a click of the mouse. When it comes to attracting prospective students, schools know their Web sites and social networks are becoming of increasing importance. In fact, experts say nearly 90% of students’ research is done online.

The application process is no different. Students can have transcripts sent electronically, fill out forms online and e-mail essays to the schools of their choice.

One Colorado high school has even come up with a more efficient way of matching students with “good fit” schools.

Boulder Valley high school guidance counselor considers Naviance.com a “counselor in a box.”

The Web site lets students single out the specific features they’re looking for in a college — majors, sports, location, etc. In this way, students can narrow down their list of schools and even begin exploring career paths. They can even find out how former Boulder Valley students fared at a particular school.

So does electronic mean faster, easier and better? Or are there potential drawbacks? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.

Tags: Boulder Valley high school, Naviance.com