Applying to Independent Schools: Advice From Parents
The process of applying to independent and private schools can be challenging to navigate. It involves many moving parts, including school visits, interviews, and entrance exams. Our Director of Admissions, Laurie Geromini, recently sat down with four parents who went through the admissions process last year to understand what it’s like for students and their families. Check out their advice to others who are navigating their admissions journey.
1. Focus on finding the right fit.
When deciding where to apply, it’s important to start the process early so that you have time to explore your options and create a list of schools. Some parents recommend providing your student with a guided list of schools and allowing them to select the options that feel like a good fit. Avoid pushing your student to apply to schools that they dislike, even if those schools are high on your personal list.
Other parents emphasize the importance of matching a school’s environment to the student’s interests. One parent shared, “We wanted to get our daughter a high-caliber education that was flexible. We knew [she] needed flexibility and a creative outlet.” That need ultimately guided their list and final decision.
2. Attend as many admissions events as possible.
Families should make an effort to attend multiple admissions events. Schools take note of families who demonstrate genuine interest. Arriving early for on-campus events allows you the opportunity to observe how current students interact with peers and the faculty–insight that can influence your decision. One parent suggested “[taking] relevant family members to visit so that you can get different perspectives.”
3. Give yourself plenty of time to practice for the ISEE and SSAT.
Entrance exams can be a stressful part of the admissions process. Students should identify areas for improvement and create a study schedule by working backwards from test day. Parents recommended using Test Innovators because it generates a Personalized Prep Plan for students. They can take full-length practice tests and work on targeted practice exercises tailored to their needs. One parent noted, “[Their daughter’s] test prep and her last test scores were really great, and that was a testament to Test Innovators.”
Keep in mind that students can take the ISEE and SSAT more than once. In fact, many parents recommend taking each test at least twice. Even if entrance exams are optional for the schools you are applying to, it’s still a good idea to take at least one–you can always choose not to send the scores if they aren’t as strong as you’d like.
4. Be transparent in your essays and parent statements.
When writing essays, students should carefully read the prompt, follow directions, and focus on being authentic. Schools want to get to know the real student behind the application. Avoid reusing the same essay for multiple schools, as doing so can result in responses that don’t fully address the prompt. This may signal a lack of effort or interest to the schools you’re applying to.
In parent statements, honesty and realism go a long way. While highlighting your student’s strengths is important, sharing areas for growth can be equally meaningful. Reflecting on how a school’s particular offerings could support your child’s development adds depth to your statement. One parent suggested strengthening the statement by referencing specific aspects of the school: “Go through [the] school’s website so you can know exactly what you’re interested in. Stay tuned with their posts and find areas that align with your interests.”
5. Prepare for the interview.
Parents recommend helping students practice common interview questions so that they feel confident and prepared. Questions like “What subjects do you excel in?” or “What kind of activities do you like to do outside of school?” are customary and give students a chance to express themselves. Another helpful strategy is to try a “reverse interview”, where the student asks the parent questions and the parent answers as if they were the student. This encourages students to practice giving thoughtful, detailed responses.
Final Thoughts
Applying to independent and private schools can be a long and uncertain process, but it can also be deeply rewarding. While parents play an important role in guiding and supporting students, it’s equally important that students take ownership of the process.
The parent panel summed it up best: “the amount of work you put into the process will determine what kind of school you will end up going to. Don’t underestimate the effort required to accomplish what you want to.”
Parent Evening: The Independent School Admissions Process
Get expert advice and information about every step of the admissions process from parents who went through it all last year.
Originally published on December 7, 2022. Updated on May 2, 2025.
