College Planning in Murrells Inlet, SC

Where Ambition Meets Admission on the Grand Strand

For more than a decade, Grand Strand families have trusted The College Planning Center to turn college dreams into acceptance letters. Our Murrells Inlet office offers in-person college admissions counseling, SAT and ACT prep, and college financial aid planning for students from Pawleys Island to Conway.

Years Serving the Grand Strand

0 +

In Aid Awarded Across 13 Years

$ 0 M+

Students Guided One-on-One

0 +

As Featured On

WMBF News

WCSC Live 5

IECA Member

NACAC Member

MB Chamber

Visit Us

Visit Our Murrells Inlet Office

Address

671 Jamestown Drive, Suite 208 E Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

Phone

(855) 442-4222

Email

info@collegeplanningcenters.com

Hours

Mon–Fri: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: By appointment
Sunday: Closed

Driving Directions

Located in the Inlet Crossing professional complex on Jamestown Drive, just off US-17 Business. From Pawleys Island, head north on Highway 17 (~12 min). From Myrtle Beach, take US-17 South (~15 min). Free parking on site.

Service Area

Serving Families Across the Grand Strand

While our office is based in Murrells Inlet, our college planning services reach families throughout the Grand Strand and Pee Dee region. Many of our students travel to us from communities up and down the coast, and we offer virtual sessions for families who prefer to meet from home.

Pawleys Island

Litchfield Beach

Garden City

Surfside Beach

Myrtle Beach

N. Myrtle Beach

Conway

Georgetown

Loris

Aynor

Little River

Carolina Forest

Serving Horry County and Georgetown County, SC

What We Offer

College Planning Services in Murrells Inlet

Choose the level of support that fits your student’s needs — from full multi-year planning to single-session help with a specific milestone.

01 / SERVICE

Comprehensive College Planning

A full-service plan covering school list building, application strategy, essay coaching, and interview prep — designed for families who want guided support from sophomore year through admission.

02 / SERVICE

Stand-Alone College Planning

Targeted help when and where you need it — application reviews, essay edits, financial aid sessions, or a single strategy meeting. Ideal for families who only need support on specific milestones.

03 / SERVICE

College Financial Planning

Navigate FAFSA, the CSS Profile, merit scholarships, and need-based aid with a financial aid specialist. We help Grand Strand families maximize awards from in-state and out-of-state schools.

04 / SERVICE

SAT and ACT Test Preparation

In-person and virtual tutoring with diagnostic testing, full-length practice exams, and 24/7 access to over 2,000 practice questions. Our SAT/ACT students average meaningful score gains across both tests.

Not sure which service fits your student? We'll help you decide.

Our Team

Meet the Team at Our Murrells Inlet Office

Our Murrells Inlet team brings decades of combined experience in college admissions, financial aid, and standardized test preparation. Each consultant works one-on-one with students to build a personalized plan for college success.

Christopher Parsons

Founder & President

Eric Haas

College Consultant

Caitlin Boninti

College Consultant

George Georgas

SAT/ACT Tutor

Local Trust

Trusted by Families at Grand Strand Area High Schools

We’ve worked with students from public, private, charter, and homeschool backgrounds across Horry and Georgetown Counties. Our consultants understand the academic landscape, course offerings, and counseling resources at each of these schools — which means we can build admission strategies that reflect what colleges actually see on your student’s transcript.

Public High Schools

Waccamaw High
Socastee High
Carolina Forest High
Conway High
St. James High
Myrtle Beach High
Aynor High
Loris High
Georgetown High
Andrews High

Private & Charter

Homeschool

What Sets Us Apart

College Planning for Grand Strand Families

Local fluency that goes beyond geography — we know the schools, the scholarships, and the strategies that move the needle for South Carolina families.

Popular College Destinations for Murrells Inlet Students

Grand Strand families consistently apply to Coastal Carolina University, the University of South Carolina, Clemson University, College of Charleston, and a growing list of out-of-state targets including UNC Chapel Hill, NC State, Wake Forest, Furman, and Wofford. Our consultants know these schools — admissions officers, scholarship deadlines, honors program nuances, and merit aid history — and we build school lists with that fluency.

Maximizing South Carolina Merit Aid

For SC residents, the Palmetto Fellows, LIFE, and HOPE scholarships can mean tens of thousands of dollars in tuition support — but eligibility is tight, and the test score and GPA thresholds shift outcomes dramatically. Our financial aid team builds test prep timelines specifically around hitting and exceeding these thresholds, so your student qualifies for the maximum award available.

Coastal Carolina University: A Local Advantage

For families considering CCU, we offer a particular depth of insight — from honors college admission strategy to specialized programs in marine science, resort tourism management, and PGA golf management. Our team has helped Grand Strand students navigate everything from in-state acceptance to merit-based scholarships at our local university.

What Grand Strand Families Are Saying

Real results from real families — read what parents say about working with Chris.

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Kevin Kinley 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a parent of two teenagers entering adulthood that are very different, having a "coach" in our corner was a game changer. They are hearing a voice that's not their parent, guides them with no judgement and does so with experience and vast options of the future. Our first experience was easier because our daughter was organized and had an idea of what she wanted to do after high school. She was tasked with structured steps to help her and the coach determine the best path throughout her journey. We're on the home stretch and feel confident that the work she put in the last few years will be fruitful. Our son was slow out of the gate. Although he has high ambitions of playing a sport post-high school, it took some time for him to realize the importance of academics in the step ladder of success. With procrastination playing a part, we became frustrated with the progress he was making towards his potential. Chris and his team were able to discern his personality and assign him a coach that was relatable and encouraging. Within a month, our son was scheduling his coach meetings, completing tasks towards the checklist and forging forward in his own quest. We're so grateful for the time and thoughtfulness of Chris and all of the coaches we've had.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Meg Sandefur 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Chris and The College Planning Center did an amazing job helping my daughter get though every step of high school - from assisting with test prep to reviewing college applications and so much more. As parents, having someone so knowledgeable about the testing and college application process relieved so much stress from us!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Vann Roe 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The College Planning Center was a huge help. I didn’t realize how much work the college process involved, but Christopher guided me through everything and made it simple. He’s always available, keeps you on track, and genuinely cares. Highly recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Harrison Single 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. When I first met with Christopher I was completely behind in my college application process. I did not have a good enough SAT score, my essay and common app weren’t even complete. With the help of Christopher Parsons and Miles Kelly, I was all caught up and ready to submit my college applications two months after meeting with them. As a result of them pushing me and holding me accountable I got into all seven colleges I applied to including my reach school. They truly care about each kid they work with and helped me tremendously in those two months.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Reyna Flores 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Chris has been such a big help with my college craziness. He has helped me through the whole process and gave me so many valuable tools
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lily Sandefur 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Deciding to use the College Planning Center to help me through my middle and high school years made them so much less overwhelming and helped me to curate a path perfect for my future goals. Chris was so helpful and guided me through everything from choosing classes to writing college essays, and test prep with Miles was extremely beneficial for my scores. I’m so grateful I had their guidance as it has helped me get into the college I had been hoping to get in to!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ladonna Susan Campbell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We highly recommend Christopher Parsons of College Planning Center. We had some unique needs, and he was able to create trust with our senior. Our family is so pleased with Christopher's help.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Gwyn Single 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot recommend Christopher Parsons highly enough for his work with students navigating the college application process. Christopher began working with my son, Harrison, at the start of his senior year — which was a relatively late start for college planning — yet he immediately brought structure, clarity, and momentum to the process.

Christopher worked directly with Harrison, setting clear deadlines and holding him accountable at every step. He helped Harrison improve his SAT scores, guided him through the Common Application, and provided thoughtful support in developing and refining his college essay. His approach struck the perfect balance between encouragement and expectation, ensuring Harrison stayed on track while still owning the process.

Our family was also in the middle of moving out of state, which added another layer of complexity. Christopher was incredibly helpful in helping us navigate the logistics of Harrison graduating early in December while simultaneously applying to out-of-state colleges. His knowledge and calm guidance made what could have been an overwhelming situation feel manageable.

The results speak for themselves: Harrison has been accepted to every college he applied to and has received merit money based on his grades and improved test scores. Christopher’s guidance played a significant role in that success.

Beyond the outcomes, what impressed me most was Christopher’s ability to connect directly with Harrison, motivate him, and keep him focused during a very busy and transitional time. His organization, experience, and genuine investment in his students make him an exceptional college advisor.

I am extremely grateful for Christopher’s help and would wholeheartedly recommend him to any family looking for expert guidance through the college application process.

-Gwyn Single
(Harrison Single WHS Class of 2026)
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Dana Johnson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. At first, I was a bit hesitant about the cost of working with Chris, the college planner for my son.  However, it absolutely paid off in the end. My son was accepted into every college he applied to, and the guidance and support throughout the process were invaluable. I highly recommend Chris and his services to any family navigating the college application process and SAT prep!! His scores increased by 200 points on the SAT in a 3 month period.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Thomas Young 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience! We came late to the program but it was excellent. Our son already had great ACT and SAT scores but really needed vocational counseling to narrow down choice and identify best direction. Christopher Parsons guided him through very thorough vocational testing and Tom was able to utilize online college interface College Planning Center offers to then identify best fit schools. Christopher was very flexible meeting over Skype around a busy senior fall schedule and guided him through advising process with tons of support for the essays required for honor colleges, etc. We appreciated the opportunity to be the parent cheerleader instead of the nag. Christopher kept on top of deadlines and worked directly with our student. I would advise to start earlier than we did and highly recommend the  vocational testing/advising which felt like a more old fashioned guidance counseling. Tom received excellent  offers from the 4 colleges selected and he chose the college Christopher had initially recommended which wasn't on our radar but upon visiting was EXACTLY what Tom was looking for in a school.

Common Questions

Common Questions from Murrells Inlet Families

Answers to the questions Grand Strand parents and students ask most.

Do you offer in-person college planning at your Murrells Inlet office?

Yes. Our Murrells Inlet office at 671 Jamestown Drive offers in-person sessions for families across the Grand Strand. We also offer virtual sessions for students with travel or schedule constraints — many families mix both formats throughout the year.

When should my Grand Strand student start college planning?

Most families benefit from starting in 9th or 10th grade. Early planning gives time to optimize course selection, build strong extracurriculars, prepare for SAT/ACT, and align with Palmetto Fellows or LIFE Scholarship requirements. We offer free consultations to help you decide what timing fits your student.

Do you help students applying to Coastal Carolina University?

Yes. CCU is one of the most popular destinations for our students, and we have detailed knowledge of its honors college, scholarship programs, and major-specific admissions tracks (including marine science, resort tourism management, and PGA golf management).

Can you help my student qualify for the Palmetto Fellows or LIFE Scholarship?

We build test prep and academic strategies around these specific thresholds. Both scholarships have firm GPA and SAT/ACT requirements, and a few points on a test can mean thousands in tuition. Our financial planning service walks families through eligibility, renewal requirements, and stacking with merit aid.

Do you work with families outside Murrells Inlet?

Yes. We regularly work with families from Pawleys Island, Litchfield Beach, Garden City, Surfside Beach, Myrtle Beach, Conway, and Georgetown at our Murrells Inlet office. We also serve the Charleston metro from our Mount Pleasant office at 1501 Belle Isle Avenue.

Is there parking at the Murrells Inlet office?

Yes. Free parking is available on site at the Inlet Crossing complex on Jamestown Drive. The office is on the second floor — Suite 208 E.

Schedule Your Free Consultation in Murrells Inlet

Book a free 30-minute consultation with one of our college planning experts. We’ll review your student’s academic profile, goals, and timeline — and recommend a path that fits your family. No obligation, no pressure.

Closer to Charleston? Visit our Mount Pleasant office

Kevin Kinley

As a parent of two teenagers entering adulthood that are very different, having a "coach" in our corner was a game changer. They are hearing a voice that's not their parent, guides them with no judgement and does so with experience and vast options of the future. Our first experience was easier because our daughter was organized and had an idea of what she wanted to do after high school. She was tasked with structured steps to help her and the coach determine the best path throughout her journey. We're on the home stretch and feel confident that the work she put in the last few years will be fruitful. Our son was slow out of the gate. Although he has high ambitions of playing a sport post-high school, it took some time for him to realize the importance of academics in the step ladder of success. With procrastination playing a part, we became frustrated with the progress he was making towards his potential. Chris and his team were able to discern his personality and assign him a coach that was relatable and encouraging. Within a month, our son was scheduling his coach meetings, completing tasks towards the checklist and forging forward in his own quest. We're so grateful for the time and thoughtfulness of Chris and all of the coaches we've had.

Meg Sandefur

Chris and The College Planning Center did an amazing job helping my daughter get though every step of high school - from assisting with test prep to reviewing college applications and so much more. As parents, having someone so knowledgeable about the testing and college application process relieved so much stress from us!

Vann Roe

The College Planning Center was a huge help. I didn’t realize how much work the college process involved, but Christopher guided me through everything and made it simple. He’s always available, keeps you on track, and genuinely cares. Highly recommend.

Harrison Single

When I first met with Christopher I was completely behind in my college application process. I did not have a good enough SAT score, my essay and common app weren’t even complete. With the help of Christopher Parsons and Miles Kelly, I was all caught up and ready to submit my college applications two months after meeting with them. As a result of them pushing me and holding me accountable I got into all seven colleges I applied to including my reach school. They truly care about each kid they work with and helped me tremendously in those two months.

Reyna Flores

Chris has been such a big help with my college craziness. He has helped me through the whole process and gave me so many valuable tools

Lily Sandefur

Deciding to use the College Planning Center to help me through my middle and high school years made them so much less overwhelming and helped me to curate a path perfect for my future goals. Chris was so helpful and guided me through everything from choosing classes to writing college essays, and test prep with Miles was extremely beneficial for my scores. I’m so grateful I had their guidance as it has helped me get into the college I had been hoping to get in to!

Ladonna Susan Campbell

We highly recommend Christopher Parsons of College Planning Center. We had some unique needs, and he was able to create trust with our senior. Our family is so pleased with Christopher's help.

Gwyn Single

I cannot recommend Christopher Parsons highly enough for his work with students navigating the college application process. Christopher began working with my son, Harrison, at the start of his senior year — which was a relatively late start for college planning — yet he immediately brought structure, clarity, and momentum to the process. Christopher worked directly with Harrison, setting clear deadlines and holding him accountable at every step. He helped Harrison improve his SAT scores, guided him through the Common Application, and provided thoughtful support in developing and refining his college essay. His approach struck the perfect balance between encouragement and expectation, ensuring Harrison stayed on track while still owning the process. Our family was also in the middle of moving out of state, which added another layer of complexity. Christopher was incredibly helpful in helping us navigate the logistics of Harrison graduating early in December while simultaneously applying to out-of-state colleges. His knowledge and calm guidance made what could have been an overwhelming situation feel manageable. The results speak for themselves: Harrison has been accepted to every college he applied to and has received merit money based on his grades and improved test scores. Christopher’s guidance played a significant role in that success. Beyond the outcomes, what impressed me most was Christopher’s ability to connect directly with Harrison, motivate him, and keep him focused during a very busy and transitional time. His organization, experience, and genuine investment in his students make him an exceptional college advisor. I am extremely grateful for Christopher’s help and would wholeheartedly recommend him to any family looking for expert guidance through the college application process. -Gwyn Single (Harrison Single WHS Class of 2026)

Dana Johnson

At first, I was a bit hesitant about the cost of working with Chris, the college planner for my son. However, it absolutely paid off in the end. My son was accepted into every college he applied to, and the guidance and support throughout the process were invaluable. I highly recommend Chris and his services to any family navigating the college application process and SAT prep!! His scores increased by 200 points on the SAT in a 3 month period.

Thomas Young

Great experience! We came late to the program but it was excellent. Our son already had great ACT and SAT scores but really needed vocational counseling to narrow down choice and identify best direction. Christopher Parsons guided him through very thorough vocational testing and Tom was able to utilize online college interface College Planning Center offers to then identify best fit schools. Christopher was very flexible meeting over Skype around a busy senior fall schedule and guided him through advising process with tons of support for the essays required for honor colleges, etc. We appreciated the opportunity to be the parent cheerleader instead of the nag. Christopher kept on top of deadlines and worked directly with our student. I would advise to start earlier than we did and highly recommend the vocational testing/advising which felt like a more old fashioned guidance counseling. Tom received excellent offers from the 4 colleges selected and he chose the college Christopher had initially recommended which wasn't on our radar but upon visiting was EXACTLY what Tom was looking for in a school.