To ensure a successful admissions process, it’s essential to take proactive steps and be well-organized from the outset.

You and your family have decided to apply to one or more private schools for the next school year. Hopefully, you have given yourself and your child plenty of time to prepare for the steps and items required for the process. The steps and requirements in this process can vary depending on the grade your child will enter and the selectiveness of the schools you’re targeting. As parents, understanding your role in this endeavor is crucial. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide to navigate the admissions process smoothly and effectively.

Below are some key considerations for parents:

Highly Selective Preschools and Elementary Schools

1. Begin by identifying a shortlist of preschools or elementary schools that align with your preferences. Research their acceptance rates, and if they are highly competitive, consider expanding your options.

2. Maintain a detailed calendar of admission-related events and deadlines. Typically, admissions portals open in late August or September, so register early to engage with the schools early.

3. Network with parents of children already enrolled in your top choices. Inquire about the teachers, parent involvement, flexibility and disciplinary procedures.

4. Attend “get to know you” events organized by prospective schools to familiarize yourself with their culture and values.

5. Understand your financial limitations for tuition and fundraising and what the school will ask of its families.

6. Inquire on required parent participation during the school year. Explore opportunities to contribute through connections or ongoing projects.

7. Prepare a photo collage of your child for the application to provide a more comprehensive perspective of your family.

8. Understand what the preschool will be looking for during the interview from your child and you. Work with your child to ensure they have the needed skills.

Private Middle and High Schools

Private school admissions season typically opens in August or September the preceding year. In addition to basic demographic information, the educational history of the student and standardized test scores, the application may consist of supplemental components such as:

  • Responses to student essay prompts.
  • Parent essays.
  • Graded writing samples.
  • Letters of recommendation, typically from English and math teachers.
  • An extracurricular profile of the student on what they do outside of class.
  • Samples of specialty work, i.e., art portfolios, sports resume, if applying to a program with a dedicated interest

In addition to the prior items listed for preschools and elementary schools, organize and prepare for the following:

  1. Maintain a calendar to track registration openings, admission events, application deadlines, and financial assistance deadlines.
  2. Compile records of your child’s achievements in academics, sports, and community service to illustrate their positive impact.
  3. Assess the impression your family will make on the school’s administration and determine how you will demonstrate your long-term commitment and support.
  4. Begin working on your parent statement early, aligning it with the school’s philosophies to showcase your family’s suitability.
  5. Collaborate with your child on their admissions essay, researching prompts as soon as possible.
  6. Identify required tests, register and prepare your child accordingly.
  7. Assist your child in selecting teachers, coaches, or mentors for compelling letters of recommendation.
  8. Assemble graded writing samples and any other requested materials.
  9. Attend non-admission events at the school, such as fundraisers and competitions, to display your family’s interest and involvement and learn more.
  10. Help your child craft a first-choice letter for their top school preference if appropriate to send.

The most challenging years to get into a preschool or private school are Pre-K 3, kindergarten, grade 6 and grade 9. So much of this process relies upon the parent. Stay on top of deadlines, ensure your child remains engaged, and maintains strong grades throughout this process.

Applying to highly selective schools can be as demanding as the college application process. Some families choose to hire an educational consultant to assist with the process and keep them on track. Do you need to hire a consultant? This depends upon how selective the school your child is applying to, if you are able to handle the extra burden during the admissions time or if you want to give your child a leg up in the application process. Schools come in all shapes and sizes with different requirements. You know your child better than anyone out there. You will be there to assist your child choose the school that is the best fit.

View Schools in Our Greater Boston/New England Annual Guide to Private Schools