Admissions

Admissions: Begin Your PECHS Journey

An Opportunity for Motivated Students

PECHS welcomes eligible students who are ready to commit to a rigorous four-year program combining high school and college coursework. The admissions process is designed to provide every applicant with clear information and a fair opportunity to be considered.

Eligibility

Applicants should review current Pasadena ISD and PECHS requirements before applying. In general, applicants must:

• Be an eligible eighth-grade student entering ninth grade
• Reside within the Pasadena ISD attendance area or meet applicable district requirements
• Be on track for promotion from eighth grade
• Demonstrate interest in a challenging academic program
• Be willing to complete the full four-year pathway
• Participate in required orientation and Summer Bridge activities
• Meet college-readiness and enrollment requirements for college coursework

Admission is not based on the idea that students must be perfect. PECHS seeks students who show motivation, persistence, responsibility, and a willingness to seek support.

Application Timeline

Time of Year	What Happens
Before October 1	Review program information, attend an information session, and discuss PECHS with your family
October 1	Application window opens
October through December	Submit the application and required materials
December 15	Application window closes
After the deadline	Staff review applications and verify eligibility
Following review	Eligible applicants receive information about selection and next steps
Spring	Selected students complete enrollment, orientation, and planning activities
Summer before ninth grade	Students attend required Summer Bridge

Dates and procedures may change. Families should follow the current admissions calendar published by Pasadena ISD and PECHS.

How to Apply

Step 1: Learn about PECHS

Review the program website, attend an information session, and speak with your middle school counselor or the PECHS admissions team.

Step 2: Discuss the commitment

Talk with your family about the academic expectations, four-year pathway, transportation, Summer Bridge, college coursework, and transition to San Jacinto College.

Step 3: Complete the application

Submit the online application during the designated application window. Provide accurate student and family information.

Step 4: Submit required materials

Follow instructions for any required records, recommendations, forms, or verification documents. Incomplete applications may not be eligible for consideration.

Step 5: Review eligibility

PECHS staff review applications and confirm that applicants meet current district and program requirements.

Step 6: Participate in selection activities

If required, complete any information session, interview, assessment, or follow-up activity described in the current admissions instructions.

Step 7: Respond by the deadline

Families selected for enrollment must confirm their intent and complete all required registration forms by the stated deadline.

Step 8: Complete Summer Bridge

All incoming students participate in Summer Bridge before beginning ninth grade.

Selection and Lottery Process

When the number of eligible applicants exceeds available seats, PECHS uses a fair selection process consistent with Pasadena ISD and Early College High School requirements.

The process generally includes:

1. Verifying that applications are complete
2. Confirming applicant eligibility
3. Identifying students who meet priority categories established by district policy
4. Conducting a random lottery when eligible applicants exceed available seats
5. Maintaining an alternate list when necessary
6. Notifying families about selection, waitlist status, or next steps

A lottery is random; submitting early does not guarantee selection. However, applications must be complete and submitted before the published deadline to be considered.

Families should review the current admissions materials for exact priority categories, documentation requirements, and notification procedures.

TSIA and College Readiness

The Texas Success Initiative Assessment helps determine whether students are ready for entry-level college coursework in reading, writing, and mathematics.

PECHS students:

• Receive TSIA preparation during Summer Bridge and throughout the program
• May complete testing in stages
• Receive support when additional preparation is needed
• Must meet applicable college-readiness benchmarks before enrolling in most college courses
• Are expected to achieve required status by the established deadline before junior year

A student who needs additional preparation is not alone. Counselors and teachers help create a plan that may include tutoring, targeted practice, retesting, or summer support.

Summer Bridge Details

Summer Bridge is required for incoming PECHS students. It prepares students academically and personally for the expectations of Early College High School.

Students can expect:

• TSIA preparation and testing information
• Lessons in study skills and time management
• Reading, writing, and mathematics practice
• Introductions to college expectations and vocabulary
• Campus and program orientation
• Meetings with counselors and mentors
• Team-building activities with the incoming cohort
• Family information about schedules, policies, transportation, and support

Families receive dates, locations, attendance expectations, and required materials before the program begins.

What Makes a Strong Applicant?

A strong applicant may demonstrate:

• Consistent effort and attendance
• Curiosity and willingness to learn
• Responsibility with assignments and deadlines
• Openness to feedback
• Ability to work with classmates
• Interest in college or career preparation
• Commitment to completing a challenging four-year program

Grades and test scores are part of the overall picture, but mindset and readiness to grow matter too.

Questions About Admissions?

For current eligibility requirements, application links, deadlines, lottery procedures, and Summer Bridge information, contact the PECHS admissions team or visit the Pasadena ISD enrollment resources.

Pasadena ISD Enrollment Resources

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Eighth-grade students who meet program requirements are encouraged to apply.

Start Your Application for PECHS Today

The application window opens October 1 and closes December 15.