Applying to Independent Schools

Applying to independent schools in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (the DMV) takes careful planning and organization. Schools use platforms such as Blackbaud, Clarity, Finalsite, Gateway, Ravenna, and TADS, so families applying to several schools may need to manage multiple systems.

Use this step-by-step checklist to stay organized and submit a strong, polished application before winter deadlines.

DMV Independent School Applications: A Step-by-Step Checklist

Application Forms & Essays

• Complete Application Forms: Create accounts on platforms such as Ravenna or school-specific portals. Complete demographic profiles early to access essay prompts.

• Draft Parent Statements: Highlight your child’s personality, strengths, and fit with the school’s mission. Use specific anecdotes and write authentically.

• Revise Student Essays: Encourage older applicants to reflect on their experiences and write in their own voice. Allow time for several rounds of revision.

• Tailor Responses to Each School: Answer “Why our school?” questions with specific connections to the school’s values, honor code, or programs.

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School Visits & Interviews

• Schedule Open Houses & Shadow Days: Reserve fall tours early, before spaces fill. Arrange shadow days so your child can experience daily life at each school.

• Practice for Interviews: Hold relaxed mock interviews at home. Encourage your child to discuss their interests clearly and prepare two or three thoughtful questions about the school.

• Send Thank-You Notes: Within 24 hours of a visit, send interviewers and tour guides brief, personalized emails or handwritten notes.

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Recommendations & School Records

• Request Teacher Recommendations: Give current teachers at least three to four weeks’ notice. Most DMV schools require evaluations from core-subject teachers, such as English and math.

• Arrange Transcript Transfers: Give your current school’s administrative office the required release forms to send report cards, standardized test scores, and attendance records.

• Follow Up Politely: Check recommendation status midway through the application season to make sure teachers have what they need before winter break.

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Tracking Progress & Deadlines

• Create a Master Tracker: Use a spreadsheet to record each school’s deadlines, fees, and required materials. Application deadlines typically run from early January to mid-February.

• Check for Missing Materials: Review application portals regularly to confirm receipt of transcripts, test scores, and teacher recommendations.

• Track Financial Aid Deadlines: If seeking tuition assistance, record Clarity or SSS deadlines, which often coincide with admission deadlines.

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SSAT & ISEE Test Planning

• Confirm Testing Policies: Many DMV schools are test-optional or test-blind. Check each school’s requirements before registering for an exam.

• Register Early: If testing is required, sign up for the SSAT or ISEE early to reserve a local test center or an online, at-home session.

• Set Aside Preparation Time: Allow a few weeks for your child to practice test formats, pacing, and question types with timed practice exams.

These two instructional videos offer additional guidance for families.

Admissions Process  — instructional video (click here)

Financial Aid  — instructional video (click here)

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