PBCC College Admissions Curriculum & Timeline
A Guided Roadmap from High School to College Enrollment


Program Overview

The PBCC curriculum is designed to guide students step-by-step through the college admissions process while intentionally building the skills needed to succeed in college and beyond. This is not a checklist—it is a developmental process that grows with students over time.


Phase 1: Foundations & Self-Discovery
Typically begins Freshman–Sophomore Year

What We Focus On

  • Understanding how colleges evaluate students
  • Building strong habits early
  • Exploring interests and strengths

Key Topics

  • High School Timeline Overview (Grades 9–12)
  • Extracurricular Activities: depth, commitment, leadership
  • Summer Programs, Jobs, & Career Exploration
  • Resume Development
  • Common App Activities List (with examples & writing tips)
  • Coalition Application Activities (structure & comparison)


📌 Outcome: Students begin forming a cohesive personal narrative and understand how their choices compound over time.


Phase 2: Academic Strategy & Course Planning
Sophomore–Junior Year


What We Focus On

  • Academic rigor and alignment with student goals
  • Strategic course selection


Key Topics

  • Understanding the High School Transcript
  • Course Selection Strategy
  • Senior Year Course Planning & Grades
  • Transcript Review & Optimization
  • Identifying Potential Senior-Year Courses


📌 Outcome: Students understand how academic decisions impact admissions and long-term options.


Phase 3: Standardized Testing Strategy
Sophomore–Junior Year (with flexibility)


What We Focus On

  • Making informed testing decisions
  • Reducing stress and unnecessary testing


Key Topics

  • SAT vs ACT Overview
  • Test-Optional & Test-Flexible Policies
  • Testing Timelines
  • Score Reporting, Superscoring, Score Choice
  • Test Prep Options & Costs
  • Accommodations (IEP/504, Extended Time)
  • TOEFL & International Considerations


📌 Outcome: Students pursue a testing plan that aligns with their strengths and college goals.


Phase 4: College Research & List Development
Junior Year


What We Focus On

  • Intentional research
  • Fit over prestige


Key Topics

  • Developing a Balanced College List (7–10 schools)
  • College Visits (in-person & virtual)
  • Research Skills & Scavenger Hunt Method
  • Using College Planner Pro (CPP)
  • Academic Programs & College Catalogs
  • Student Life, Study Abroad, Career Services
  • Cost & Affordability Considerations


📌 Outcome: Students can articulate why a school fits them academically, socially, and financially.


Phase 5: Application Strategy & Execution
Junior–Senior Year


What We Focus On

  • Strategic decision-making
  • Managing deadlines and requirements


Key Topics

  • Application Types: ED, EA, RD, Rolling, SCEA, REA
  • Decision Strategy & Trade-offs
  • Deadlines & Outcomes
  • Additional Information Section (when & how to use it)
  • Application Organization & Tracking


📌 Outcome: Students approach applications with clarity, confidence, and ownership.


Phase 6: Essays, Recommendations & Interviews
Summer Before Senior Year – Fall


What We Focus On

  • Authentic storytelling
  • Professional communication


Key Topics

  • Personal Statement (Common App Essay)
  • Supplemental Essays
  • Essay Writing Strategy & Tips
  • Letters of Recommendation: who, when, how
  • Naviance / eDocs
  • Interview Preparation, Practice & Follow-Up


📌 Outcome: Students present a compelling, cohesive application that reflects their Personal Best.


Phase 7: Special Considerations & Student Support
As Needed


What We Focus On

  • Individual needs and pathways


Key Topics

  • Learning Differences & Academic Support in College
  • Mental Health Resources & Campus Support
  • Questions to Ask (Non-Admissions Staff)
  • Athletes, Artists, Performers & Special Interest Applicants


📌 Outcome: Students and families understand support systems and advocate effectively.


Phase 8: Financial Aid & Scholarships
Junior–Senior Year


What We Focus On

  • Financial literacy
  • Long-term affordability


Key Topics

  • PBCC Financial Aid Workshops
  • Merit Aid & Institutional Scholarships
  • FAFSA & Government Aid
  • 529 Plans & Tuition Insurance
  • State-Specific Programs (e.g., NJ STARS)
  • Managing Sticker Shock


📌 Outcome: Families make informed financial decisions without panic or guesswork.


Phase 9: Decisions, Enrollment & Transition
Spring of Senior Year


What We Focus On

  • Choosing wisely
  • Preparing for independence


Key Topics

  • Interpreting Admissions Decisions
  • Comparing Offers
  • Final Enrollment Steps
  • Transition to College Expectations


📌 Outcome: Students commit confidently and are prepared for the next chapter.



Throughout every phase, PBCC uses the admissions process as a teaching tool—helping students build independence, resilience, and strategic thinking that will serve them well beyond college.