Just as the college admissions process has changed dramatically over the last few decades, so too has the annual college fair.

In the “old days,” attending the college fair was a little akin to the famous Filene’s Basement “Running of the Brides” annual wedding gown sale. That’s where anxious brides and their mothers lined up for hours, and when the doors opened they dashed in and scooped up as many dresses as possible, even trying them on in the middle of the store. It was utter chaos.

The old college fair was just that crowded but not nearly as exciting. Families waited and waited for the prospect of introducing themselves to a college representative only to finally arrive at the table and find business cards and brochures had all been snatched up.

So what’s new?

The single biggest difference is that students now need to register at www.gotomyncf.com before attending.

Fill out the appropriate forms and print out the bar code. This will allow you to “flash your pass” at any college table instead of filling out information cards and spend quality time at the colleges where you’re really interested.

Parents can also register on behalf of their children. This is a great idea if your children are not able to attend, or if you choose to divide and conquer as a way to talk to more colleges. Registering also allows colleges to follow up with you.

Plan of action:

Check out the list of colleges attending your local college fair because not every college attends every fair.

Discuss your priorities: size, cost, majors of interest, two- or four-year college, far away or close to home, etc.

Make a list of the college representatives you’re interested in meeting.

Check out the workshops available.

Lee Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte, N.C.