Admissions

I wish that during the 15 years I worked in boarding school admissions, I had kept track of how many students I interviewed. I imagine it’s a greater number than I would even guess. I loved to interview students and have that time to really get to know them -- who they are, what they hope to do, what they are looking for, how they might fit in at my school, and what they bring with them. Sometimes, it was very clear to me that a student was nervous -- perhaps it was their first time in an interview situation. So I would start with, “Are you nervous?” It’s amazing how identifying that fear could somehow easily dissipate it as well. From there, we could talk comfortably with one another and explore what we wanted to explore. Many of the students I work with in boarding school guidance have not been interviewed before this point, which makes sense given their age. I like to guide them beforehand with how they might be more prepared -- both in terms of what they might be asked in an interview and what they might ask, as well as how to make a good impression.

This video looks at Miss Porter's School in Farmington, Connecticut.

What should I wear?

I’m glad you asked! This is one of the first things I ask my students who are planning their visits!

Your husband has just called to say that he got the promotion. The increase in responsibilities and money makes the move exciting. But it's July. And you will be relocating across the country. What are you going to do about the children's schooling? They have just finished 8th and 10th grade in the local public schools, which are in a really fine district. It's too late to apply to a private school, right?

This scenario gets played out in thousands of households all over the globe. If your spouse works for a multinational firm, chances are that he will have to spend some time abroad. It's also certain that your children will have to move in the middle of an academic year. Business never seems to pay heed to school calendars. Business is business and has a mind of its own.

So, is it too late to get your children into a private school? Absolutely not. And, frankly, if you have any idea that future moves may be in the offing, you need to consider seriously settling your children into boarding school. The stability of boarding school will help insulate your children from the stress and strain of moving.

Admissions After the Deadlines

Truthfully, you will probably not be able to get your children into one of the very selective, highly competitive boarding schools UNLESS you or your spouse attended one. It would certainly be a long shot, and all the planets would have to be aligned, but

Applying to boarding school is an exciting journey, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail.

• Missing key steps in the application process can impact your chances of acceptance.
• Whether you're preparing essays, securing recommendations, or scheduling interviews, staying organized is essential.

As you begin the process of selecting a boarding school for your child, consider the following ten items.

1. Submit your application before the deadline.

Waiting until the last minute to apply is never a good idea.

• Ensure your child's admissions folder is completed well before the deadline.

• Admissions staff are intrinsically well-organized and detail-oriented.

  They will appreciate the care and concern that you have shown in completing your child's file as soon as you can. After all, they can only begin their review process once the file is complete.

• If a school does not have a fixed admissions deadline but instead uses rolling admissions, the same rules of the road apply.

• Submit your application and all the supporting materials as soon as possible.

2. Give recommendation forms to your child's teachers early.

Don't hand the teacher recommendation forms to the teachers the week before they are due.

• That's discourteous. Don't forget to put a stamp on all the return envelopes. Teachers will appreciate your thoughtfulness.
• Recommendation forms take time and care to complete.
• Give your child's teachers as much time as you possibly can to accomplish this task.

While this video pertains to the college admissions process,

This article has been updated to reflect 2026 data and recent developments.

You have a couple of ways to apply to boarding school. Choose the method which is easiest for you.

Apply to the Individual Schools

You can always ask the schools to send you an applications package. Many schools have a 'request information' link on their websites. This will explain the applications procedure for that specific school. You will receive the application materials electronically in most cases, although some schools may provide paper materials upon request. Complete the required forms according to the school's instructions and submit the completed application to the school.

Most schools will also have online applications. Online application forms have the advantage of saving time for the school because the data gets loaded right into their admissions database. The procedure varies from school to school but basically will have some sort of secure log-in where you will find the instructions on how to apply. You complete some forms online. Others, like the teacher recommendation forms, may be submitted electronically through the application system.

For example, Phillips Exeter Academy provides its application requirements and instructions online, including information about recommendations, transcripts, testing, and other components of the admissions process.

Use a Common Application

The SSAT offers an online application service they call The Standard Application Online (SAO). Or use the Gateway To Prep Schools Application. This greatly simplifies the applications process for schools that use it. You only