From January 19 to March 12, students in their final year of secondary school in France submit their preferences through Parcoursup, an online platform designed to streamline access to higher education. On Tuesday, June 2, these students will receive their admission results and must then choose a program. While Parcoursup aims to simplify the process, it has become a major source of stress and confusion for many families. Stéphanie, a journalist and parent, has expressed concerns about the platform's complexity and the emotional toll it takes on families. Parcoursup allows final-year high school students and those seeking a career change to apply for post-baccalaureate programs, such as university degrees, vocational training (BTS, DUT), preparatory classes, and specialized schools. Institutions review the candidates' files based on their own criteria and make offers in different stages of the process. However, the platform is often seen as difficult to navigate, with many users struggling to understand how decisions are made. Parents are particularly concerned about the lack of transparency regarding selection criteria, which can create a sense of unfairness and unpredictability. Some feel pressured to choose between prestigious institutions and more secure options, fearing that their children might not get accepted anywhere despite strong grades. The uncertainty of long waiting lists or delayed responses adds to the anxiety, especially as the summer approaches without clear outcomes. The stress of the Parcoursup process affects not only students but also their families, creating an intense emotional experience. Siblings often worry about each other’s results, and parents may feel caught between hope and discouragement as they watch updates on their child’s status. The competitive environment among students also increases pressure, as academic performance and extracurricular involvement play a key role in securing admission. This can lead to feelings of rivalry and jealousy, with students who have more time for activities seen as having a better chance of getting into their preferred programs. Parents have called for greater clarity and support, expressing frustration with the limited information provided by teachers and school counselors. They argue that better explanations of selection processes, stronger guidance from educational staff, and more support for career planning before high school are needed. While Parcoursup is an essential part of the higher education journey in France, it continues to cause anxiety for many families, highlighting the need to address its psychological and social impacts.