Applying to Schools

How to nail the application process and get into the school of your choice

Make no mistake: private schools want the best students in their classrooms, on their sports fields, and in their alumni networks, and every quality school screens for families and students they want as a part of their community. This screening process can range from a simple phone call or application form to a rigorous academic and character analysis of the student. The priorities of each school will differ, too. Some schools focus on academics, others on ethnic and socioeconomic diversity, and others on a sense of commitment and shared values with parents.


Video: Applying to School - The Interview

Must Read: Applying to private schools: step-by-step


The independent or private school experience is an exciting time for new students: there will be new friends, challenging class work, sports and extracurricular activities.

But in order for your child to have these experiences, you must first find the right school for them, and apply.... [Read More]


The private school interview


Regardless of the context, the word "interview" can incite much fear and anxiety. For students hoping towin overthe administrators of their dream private school, the interview seems like yet another hoop to jump through.It helps to remember that while the interview is important, it's just one piece of the... [Read More]


Private school interview questions


Many private schools interview students as part of the admissions process. Especially for middle and high school, you may be asked to come in for at least one interview, either with or without your parents.

Interviews can be an important factor in admissions decisions. Along with transcripts, report cards, tests, essays... [Read More]


How many schools should I apply to?


Wondering how many schools you should apply your child to next year? Here's some advice and tips to keep in mind when choosing to apply to a school and what to expect during the application process.

One of the most common misconceptions about getting into private school is that you should apply to as many schools as... [Read More]


The application process


Every private and independent school in Canada has its own application and admissions process so it is best to consult individual schools for detailed information. However, most schools will require at the very least:

What you may be asked to submit:Many schools have lengthy waiting lists and accept applications more th... [Read More]


The admissions process


At one time, if you wanted your child to go to a private school, you chose a school, applied, paid the fee and your child went to the school.

No more. Many of today's private and independent schools are inundated with many more applicants than they have places. Unlike public schools, which have to admit children who... [Read More]


SSAT Schools


It's a four-letter word that's associated with an awful lot of nervousness among many private school applicants—SSAT.

With knowledge, however, comes power. So, let's demystify the SSAT for you, so you can be confident about what this means, and what it does not, as you embark on the application process... [Read More]


A comprehensive guide to the SSATs


The SSAT (Secondary School Admissions Test) is an admissions test required by a number of private and independent schools across Canada. It's one important step on the path to an independent school education.... [Read More]


Getting into private school: what schools look for


We provide all the information you need on the application and admissions process on OurKids.net. Here we focus on what private schools tend to look for in applicants. We asked school officials and education consultants to weigh in on this question. What follows are valuable insights to help you get into your school of... [Read More]


Getting into private school: the interview


We provide all the information you need on the application and admissions process on OurKids.net. Here we focus on the private school interview. We asked school officials and education consultants to weigh in on key feature of applications. What follows are valuable insights to help you ace your interview.... [Read More]


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