College admissions Advising
Where Do We Even Begin?
High school courses, extracurriculars, summer activities, test scores, understanding and researching schools, planning visits, writing essays, and staying on top of application deadlines—where does your child start? Without a clear strategy, students risk falling behind, missing opportunities, or choosing a college that doesn’t align with their goals. Parents, we know you feel the pressure too—trying to guide your child through a complex and high-stakes process without a roadmap is challenging. You don’t have to figure this out alone. We’re here to guide your student every step of the way—with clarity, compassion, and expert strategy.
Our Approach to Admissions Advising?
Our college admissions advising is a personalized, step-by-step experience designed to help your teen succeed—academically, personally, and emotionally—throughout the college application journey. We combine proven tools with a human-centered approach so teens gain confidence, get organized, and stand out.
Whether your teen is just starting the process or preparing final applications, we meet them where they are and guide them toward where they want to go.
The College Bound Advising Difference
Unlike traditional counseling services that follow rigid formulas, our approach balances structure with flexibility. We’ve developed our signature “CBA triangle” methodology that ensures each student’s college list is a balanced list – and the “8 Ps of Writing” that ensures each student’s authentic voice shines through in every aspect of their application.
Our team of former higher education administrators, educators, counselors, writing experts, and parents who’ve navigated this journey brings both expertise and empathy to every interaction. We’re known for our college list building approach that incorporates a fine balance of scaffolding and autonomy and agency building aspects and our writing center, where students find both practical guidance and emotional support—complete with stress balls and snacks during crunch time.
Whether your child is just starting the process or preparing final applications, we meet them where they are and guide them toward where they want to go—all while empowering parents to serve as supportive partners rather than stressed managers.
Our Services
Get expert college admissions guidance tailored to your student’s unique journey— from personalized coaching and strategic college list building to standout essay writing and specialized admissions support for athletes, artists, and performers.
1:1 College Admissions Coaching
Our signature comprehensive program includes full-service, team-based advising with:
- A dedicated college coach and essay-writing expert
- Personalized planning for high school coursework, extracurriculars, and summer programs
- A custom College List Builder experience
- Personalized application timelines and strategic to-do lists
- Individualized SAT/ACT testing advice and submission planning
- Interview prep and school-specific application guidance
- Financial aid and scholarship navigation
- Access to in-person or virtual office hours
Students receive expert, compassionate support from a team that understands both the admissions process and the parent-teen dynamic. Our curriculum integrates the latest social science strategies to build confidence and improve outcomes.
College List Building Package
Start your search with confidence.
Our College List Builder system crafts a personalized, strategic list of schools tailored to your child’s unique strengths, interests, and goals.
We’re known for our college list building approach that incorporates a fine balance of scaffolding and autonomy and agency building aspects.
What's Included:
- In-depth intake to understand academic profile and personal values
- A curated list of colleges with rationale behind each recommendation
- Revisions based on family feedback
- Tools and timelines to continue the college research journey
Available as part of our 1:1 packages or as a standalone service.
Extracurricular Activities Audit
It’s not about checking boxes—it’s about discovering purpose.
Our Activities Audit helps students explore who they are and what matters to them, so they make intentional choices that reflect real passions (not just what looks good on an application).
We Offer:
- Individualized guidance on how and where to spend time
- Clarity on what colleges value in extracurricular involvement
- Confidence to pursue meaningful leadership and service
Specialized Admissions Support
In addition to general advising, we offer targeted coaching for students applying through specialized pathways:
- Visual or Performing Arts Auditions
- Portfolio Development
- Transfer Applications
We help students and families navigate the unique processes, requirements, and strategic approaches needed for these distinct applications.
Real Results, Real Families
of our students are admitted to one of their top three schools
apply at least two weeks before their first deadline
of early decision applicants receive acceptance letters
Your Next Step Is Simple
Let’s talk about your child’s journey and how we can help make it successful, intentional, and even enjoyable. The first step is a conversation.
