Applying to Independent Schools: August Newsletter
Greetings and happy summer! As you get ready to apply to independent and private schools this fall, I wanted to share some suggestions on what to do over the next month.
Here is your August to do list:
- Register for the SSAT and/or ISEE
- Make a “wish list” of attributes
- Request materials from schools
- Schedule interviews
Read more below!
Applying to independent schools can be a challenging process to navigate, so I will be sharing a ‘to do list’ each month to help guide you. Stay tuned for more info!
– Laurie, Director of Placement and Admissions Coaching
August To Do List:
1. Register for the SSAT and/or ISEE
In order to determine which test (SSAT or ISEE) you need to take, check with the schools you are interested in to see which test they accept.
When registering for the SSAT and/or ISEE, there are five important things you need to consider: applying for accommodations, requesting a fee waiver, choosing the format, sending scores, and testing more than once.
a) Applying for accommodations (if applicable)
Testing accommodations for the SSAT and ISEE must be approved before you register for the test. Applying for accommodations can involve several steps, so it’s important to start the process sooner rather than later to avoid any last-minute scurry for paperwork. Examples of accommodations include additional time, use of a calculator, a reader, and selecting answers in the test booklet.
b) Requesting a fee waiver (if applicable)
Fee waivers are available to students in financial need. Fee waivers cover the registration cost for the ISEE, and they can be obtained from schools to which you are applying. It’s best to make your requests early. Students will need a waiver each time they take the test.
c) Choosing the format
The SSAT and ISEE are offered on paper and on the computer. Students can take the test on paper at a test center or at an educational consultant’s office, or on the computer at home or at a Prometric testing center.
When deciding whether your student should take the test on paper or on the computer, consider their comfort level with paper versus a computer. Do they prefer writing by hand or typing on a keyboard? Are they good at keeping multiple pieces of paper organized or are they better at navigating on a computer? Are they good at using a paper bubble sheet? Are they able to read from a computer screen for several hours?
d) Sending scores
When you register for the test, you have the option of selecting schools that you’d like your scores sent to. However, it is best to wait to send your scores until after you’ve had a chance to review them first.
e) Testing more than once
It’s always a good idea to plan to take the test more than once. That way, if the first time doesn’t go as well as you’d hoped, you’ll have another chance. Because most applications are due in January, it’s best to take the test in October or November and then again in December if needed.
2. Make a “wish list” of attributes
Like the process for other big investments, applying to independent and private schools should start with a reflection of what is important for your family and for your student. Think about what attributes are ‘must-haves’ and those that are ‘nice to have.’
Consider things like academic offerings, the learning environment, extracurricular activities, and proximity to home. This wish list will help you throughout the process as you navigate what schools are best for your family.
3. Request materials from schools
Check out school websites to get a better sense of what the school is all about. Look at the curriculum guide and student handbook, review the calendar to see the events offered, and read parent newsletters and student publications. Then reach out to the schools you are interested in to get more information and application materials.
You can also visit schools casually if they are open. Many schools may now allow visitors but likely won’t have official tours until later this fall. .
4. Make plans to attend open houses
Schools host open houses and other admissions events to give prospective families an opportunity to visit the campus and learn more about the school. Because your calendar will fill up quickly this fall, you’ll want to start planning which open houses you’d like to attend. You can find open house dates on the school website. The National Association of Independent Schools website also has information on admissions events.
While these events aren’t necessarily required, it is important to attend. Many schools keep track of who attends these events as a way to gauge an applicant’s level of interest.
5. Schedule interviews
Schools often open up interview dates at the end of August/early September. Because the convenient slots tend to fill up quickly, you’ll want to schedule your interviews as soon as possible. It’s best to try to have interviews completed by mid-November if possible.
Many schools offer both virtual and in-person interview opportunities, so pick the option that best serves your family’s needs.
Laurie Geromini
Director of Placement and Admissions Coaching
Laurie brings thirty years of independent school admissions and placement experience to Test Innovators. She has served as Director of Admissions, Director of Financial Assistance, and Director of Secondary School Counseling in a variety of K-12 environments, including boarding and day schools.
Originally published on August 11, 2022. Updated on August 4, 2023.
