Experts in
Admissions, Academics, & Extracurriculars
Cultivating adaptive skills and lasting purpose in an ever-changing world.
97%
of families whose teen got into a top-choice college.
$5k–$40k
per year in merit scholarships earned by CAC students.
2016–2026
eleven graduating classes of published admissions outcomes.
How we work together
Three ways in
Every engagement starts with a conversation about where your teen is now and what they want next.
Grades 9–11
College Planning & Prep
Understand the options, the timelines, and the admissions practices colleges keep under wraps — early enough to act on them.
Grades 11–12
College Admissions Coaching
Application strategy, school list, essays, recommendations, interviews, and scholarships — from first draft to final submission.
All grades
Academics & Extracurriculars
Study skills, course selection, and extracurricular development that builds a genuine record rather than a padded one.
About CAC
Coaching, not gatekeeping
Nena Malhotra founded Custom Academic Coaching to give families a straightforward account of how admissions actually works, and a plan their teen can carry out themselves.
Students come away with essays in their own voice, a college list they can defend, and the habit of making decisions on purpose. Parents come away knowing what happens next.
“Nena is so much more than just a college advisor. She is a mentor, a supportive friend, a confidant and your student’s biggest cheerleader.”
NancyAttorney & Proud Mom
In their words
Students and parents
“If it wasn’t for Nena’s counseling I wouldn’t have been able to transfer to my dream school: NYU Tisch!”
ArhanaFilm Student, New York University
“Nena really made the process significantly easier and less stressful. I wholeheartedly believe it is because of her guidance that I was able to get into my dream college.”
DavidBusiness Student, University of Southern California
“Nena is patient, dedicated, and knows exactly how to build trust with both students and parents.”
CarloSoftware Engineering Executive & Proud Dad
Applying this fall?
Join the 97% of families whose teen got into a top-choice college.
Seats are limited.