How Admissions Works

Many people find the admissions process to private schools intimidating, confusing, complicated and, perhaps, a tad invasive. "Why do they have to know so much about me?" is the question that keeps popping up as you peruse all those admissions materials.

The truth is that admission is more than test scores and a strong transcript. The school wants to get to know you as much as possible. Who are you? What subjects do you like? What sports do you enjoy? What is your favorite pastime? Behind all those recommendations and transcripts is a real person with dreams, aspirations, and hopes. A private school wants to encourage you and help you be all you can be.

As families navigate the admissions process in 2026, many schools continue to use a holistic approach that considers academics alongside character, interests, leadership potential, and community involvement. Your application is your opportunity to show the admissions committee the complete picture of who you are.

The other thing that the admissions staff looks for is the fit. Are you a good fit for their school? Can you do the academic work? Will you be a congenial member of the school community? Yes, those are the same questions that you and your parents have been asking as you evaluate schools. Your admissions profile offers the school a fairly complete picture of you, your academic strengths and weaknesses, the sports you like, your hobbies, and so on.

While this video describes a college admissions profile, private

Applying to a private school is a process. It is a process with many sections and parts to it. If you are accustomed to managing projects and meeting deadlines, this is just another version of that kind of exercise. I strongly recommend that you set it up just as carefully as you set up any major 12 to 18-month project at your office. When you organize yourself this way, you can put the project on the back burner for a week or so in the first six months without losing any momentum because you have your notes and "must-do" items listed. You can see what has to be done at a glance.

Start the Process Well in Advance

Begin your private school search at least 18 months before you actually want your child to begin classes. For example, if you want your child to begin Grade 10, then you would begin your private school search process in the spring of Grade 8. That will give you summer and fall to identify and visit schools. That will also allow time for admissions testing and submitting applications.

You can start earlier if you prefer, but this timetable will give you enough time to thoroughly research and visit schools without feeling rushed. You will be able to arrive at well-informed decisions about where to apply. Starting far in advance ensures that you have enough time to take care of all the details and arrangements involved with visiting schools for admissions interviews,