Get It Done in November!

• Use our private school search to find the school that's right for you.
• As you work on each application, keep copies of everything you send in. This will make for easy reference later, and can also be helpful if you're applying to multiple schools with similar requirements.
• If your target school requires the SSAT, ISEE, COOP, HSPT, or SHSAT, determine the test date and your prep plan.
• Check with the financial aid office during your school tours to see if there is financial aid available.

For more helpful advice, check out our private school planning timeline.

Private School by the Numbers
First things first: It’s certainly possible to get a great education at a public school. But there are also reasons to consider private education, especially if you’re not satisfied with your local district:

• A larger percentage of students at private schools take advanced courses
• Students are more likely to take Advanced Placement courses as sophomores
• Private school students get more involved in extracurricular activities

The bottom line is what’s best for your child — wherever that ends up being.

Types of Schools
Private schools come in many shapes and sizes. Some are known for sports and extracurricular activities. Others are legendary for top-notch academics. Most offer a good balance. In researching your options, you’ll come across the following types of programs: 

• Boarding Schools
  This is the 24/7 private school experience, where students live and learn at school.
• Independent Day Schools
  Day schools offer the benefits of a boarding school, without the overnight requirement!
• Semester Schools
  These programs give students the chance to study at another school for a semester. 

Carefully consider what will work best for your family as you narrow your choices.