ADMISSIONS
Ridley College has rolling admissions and is more competitive than most schools, with popular entry grades including Day and Boarding options. The process may require an interview and essay. Families and alumni describe the admissions process as personal and welcoming, emphasizing the nurturing environment and sense of belonging at Ridley College.
Page Contents
Insider community voices
Hear directly from Ridley College community as they share insights into the Admissions.
Facts and analysis
VISITING THE SCHOOL
Upcoming open houses will be announced here.
An open house includes a campus tour and meetings with teachers, staff, and students. Hosting open houses is a typical practice among schools.
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Why it matters
A school visit offers a firsthand look at the environment, culture, and daily life of the school. It provides an opportunity to ask questions, observe interactions, and verify your expectations directly. It's a vital part of an informed choice.
APPLICATION DEADLINES
Ridley College has rolling admissions for Day and Boarding entry.
See the deadline distribution for all other schools we cover below.
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Application deadline by enrollment type(s)
Month Ridley College Other schools Rolling admissions Fixed deadline Rolling admissions September Day and Boarding admissions 0% 90% of all other schools have rolling admissions October Less than 1% November 1% December 7% January 2% February 1% March 2% April Less than 1% May Less than 1% June Less than 1% July 0% August Less than 1% Unlock to view how other schools compare. -
Why it matters
The admissions timeline helps you plan and prepare for key milestones, including school visits, application submission, and acceptance notifications.
ACCEPTANCE RATE
57% of all applications are accepted.
Admissions at Ridley College is more competitive than the majority of the schools we cover.
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What Ridley College says it looks for in students
The Ridley Admissions Committee looks for students who are engaged and motivated individuals. The Committee looks for students who demonstrate potential to make a positive contribution to the Ridley community and who will take advantage of the many opportunities available at the school - in the classroom and boarding houses, as well as in the arts, athletics, leadership, and community service activities. Students who are well-rounded, open-minded, enthusiastic, and academically-focused are encouraged to apply.
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Why it matters
A school's acceptance rate gives you an indication of how competitive the admissions process is. Understanding this can help you set expectations and make strategic decisions about where to apply. Please note that the acceptance rates provided here are approximate.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
The admissions process may require an interview and an entrance essay.
See grade-by-grade admissions requirements at Ridley College and how they compare with other schools.
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Breakdown by grade
Grade Required by Ridley College % of schools requiring Interview SSAT SSAT (out of province) Entrance exam Entrance essay JK - - - - Interview: 35%, Exam: 4% SK - - - - Interview: 36%, Exam: 5% Gr. 1 - - - - Interview: 51%, Exam: 15%, Essay: 2% Gr. 2 - - - - Interview: 52%, Exam: 18%, Essay: 2% Gr. 3 - - - - Interview: 52%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 20%, Essay: 3% Gr. 4 - - - Interview: 54%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 21%, Essay: 4% Gr. 5 - - - Interview: 55%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 24%, Essay: 5% Gr. 6 - - - Interview: 59%, SSAT: 2%, Exam: 25%, Essay: 7% Gr. 7 - - - Interview: 61%, SSAT: 2%, Exam: 27%, Essay: 10% Gr. 8 - - - Interview: 62%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 26%, Essay: 10% Gr. 9 - - - Interview: 49%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 23%, Essay: 11% Gr. 10 - - - Interview: 47%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 19%, Essay: 11% Gr. 11 - - - Interview: 47%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 19%, Essay: 12% Gr. 12 - - - Interview: 42%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 15%, Essay: 10% Unlock to view how other schools compare. -
What Ridley College says about the application process
Application fee: $100
Registration fee: $3,000
Deposit: N/A
Description:
Application Fees
- Domestic: $100
- International: $200
Registration Fees
Domestic Day
- JK-Grade 4: $1,250
- Grade 5-8: $1,850
- Grade 9-12: $3,000
Domestic Boarding
- $3,500
International Boarding
- $4,000 (one-time registration fee) + $4,500 (estimated incidental fees) = $8,500 (total confirmation fee (non-refundable))
Deadlines
- Due to high demand and a competitive application process, Ridley can no longer offer rolling admissions for day applicants in our Upper School. The day student application deadline for all Upper School families is Friday, February 20th, 2026. Applications completed and submitted after this deadline will only be reviewed if space permits.
- Decision letters for all families who submitted their application before the deadline will be sent on Friday, March 6th, 2026.
- Families applying for Tuition Assistance must complete their Apple application by Wednesday, February 11th, 2026.
Note: The SSAT is only a requirement for those students applying for a merit-based scholarship.
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Why it matters
Understanding admission requirements is crucial as you assess your fit with a school and the likelihood of acceptance. These requirements often reflect the school's educational priorities.
