Why a Private School
Small, Discussion-Based Classes
Many boarding schools teach in small, discussion-based classes that emphasise expression and critical thinking.
Broad Course Offerings
Courses typically span advanced math, sciences, humanities and arts, and many schools offer AP or advanced-level classes.
College Counselling
Dedicated college counsellors help students plan their university applications.
Residential Life
Boarding schools provide dorms, advisors and weekend programs, so students live and learn on campus.
Our Services
School Selection
We match boarding and day schools to the student’s grade, record, interests and family budget.
- Boarding versus day comparison
- Matching location, size and school culture
- Campus tours and virtual information sessions
Test Preparation
Preparation for the SSAT or ISEE and, for international students, English tests such as the TOEFL or Duolingo, based on each school’s requirements.
- Diagnostic test and study plan
- Section-by-section SSAT and ISEE practice
- English proficiency test preparation
Applications and Essays
Guidance on student essays and parent statements, and coordination of teacher recommendations and transcripts.
- Application platforms and deadline tracking
- Student essay and parent statement guidance
- Recommendations and transcripts
Interview Preparation
Mock interviews that help students share their interests and personality naturally.
- Practice with common interview questions
- Online and on-campus interview preparation
- Key points for parent conversations
Enrollment and Visa Guidance
Guidance after admission on enrollment, I-20 and F-1 visa documents, and getting ready for school.
- Comparing offers and enrolling
- I-20 and F-1 visa document guidance
- Preparing for arrival
Application Process
- 1
Initial Assessment
We review the student’s grade, record, interests and family goals, then set the target entry grade and timeline.
- 2
Build the School List
Considering boarding or day, location and budget, we settle on a list of six to ten schools.
- 3
Tests and Visits
In the summer and fall before entry, the student takes the SSAT or ISEE and any English test, and attends campus tours or virtual sessions.
- 4
Interviews
In fall and winter, the student interviews with each school, on campus or online.
- 5
Submit Applications
Essays, transcripts and recommendations go in by each school’s deadline, usually mid-January to early February.
- 6
Offers and Enrollment
Most boarding schools release decisions in early-to-mid March; we compare offers, complete enrollment, and prepare the I-20 and visa.
Application Materials
Academic Records
- Transcripts from the last two to three years
- Recommendations from English and math teachers
- SSAT or ISEE scores (as required)
Forms and Essays
- Student essays and short answers
- Parent statement
- Application fee
For International Students
- English proficiency scores (TOEFL, Duolingo or others, as required)
- Passport
- Financial documents for the I-20
- F-1 student visa
Frequently Asked Questions
When should we start?
We usually suggest starting 12–18 months ahead: tests, visits and interviews in the summer and fall before entry, applications in winter, and decisions around March.
Which grade is best for entry?
Grade 9 is the main entry point at boarding schools, Grade 10 has some places, and Grade 11 and postgraduate places are limited.
SSAT or ISEE?
Both are private-school entrance tests. Most schools accept either, but a few accept only one, so check each school’s requirements.
Do international students need the TOEFL?
Students whose first language is not English usually need an English proficiency score; accepted tests and scores vary by school.
What does it cost?
Boarding tuition includes room and board and costs considerably more than day school. See each school’s published fees in our school directory.
Which schools would suit your child?
Tell us the grade, academic record and goals, and an advisor will suggest schools and an application timeline.
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