Comprehensive Guide to Private School Application Process and How Amazing Education Can Help

Our teaching and college admissions planning teams have helped students secure places at prestigious universities worldwide, including Harvard University, Dartmouth College, Princeton University, the University of California, Berkeley, the University of Cambridge, Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, Columbia University, Duke University, the University of Chicago, the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia (UBC), the University of Waterloo, McGill University, and many others.

Application Process Overview

The private school application process typically involves the following steps:

Step 1: Research and School Selection

Identify schools that match the student’s academic goals, extracurricular interests, and cultural preferences.

Consider factors such as location, tuition, boarding vs. day school, academic programs, and class sizes.

Review each school’s application requirements and deadlines.

Step 2: Application Submission

Submit the application form, which includes basic student information, academic records, teacher recommendations, and extracurricular achievements.

Many schools use platforms such as the Standard Application Online (SAO) or their proprietary portals.

Step 3: Entrance Examinations

Most private schools require standardized test scores such as the SSAT or ISEE. These exams evaluate verbal, quantitative, and reading skills.

English language proficiency tests like the TOEFL or IELTS are often required for international applicants.

Step 4: Personal Statement and Essays

Students must write essays or personal statements reflecting their goals, interests, and reasons for applying to the school.

Parents may also be asked to submit a statement explaining why the school is a good fit for their child.

Step 5: Interviews

Schools conduct interviews to assess the student’s personality, communication skills, and compatibility with the school’s culture.

Interviews may be in-person, virtual, or conducted in a group setting.

Step 6: Recommendations and Additional Materials

Obtain letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or coaches who can vouch for the student’s academic ability and character.

Some schools may request additional materials, such as art or music portfolios.

Step 7: Admission Decision

Schools notify applicants of their admission status via acceptance, waitlist, or rejection letters. Decision dates vary but typically fall in the spring.

Step 8: Enrollment

Accepted students submit their enrollment agreements and pay the required deposit to secure their place.

Detailed Overview of Examinations

SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test)

Purpose: Assesses verbal, quantitative, and reading skills for private school admission.

Levels: Elementary (Grades 3-4), Middle (Grades 5-7), Upper (Grades 8-11).

Structure: Includes verbal, quantitative, reading comprehension, and writing sample sections.

ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam)

Purpose: Similar to the SSAT, it evaluates a student’s academic readiness for private schools.

Levels: Lower, Middle, and Upper, depending on the grade.

Structure: Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, math achievement, and an unscored essay.

TOEFL/IELTS (English Proficiency Tests)

Purpose: Required for non-native English speakers to demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Structure: Sections focus on academic English usage in various contexts.

School-Specific Tests

Some schools require additional testing, such as subject-specific assessments or cognitive ability tests.

Interview Process

Format

In-Person Interviews: Conducted on-campus or during open house events.

Virtual Interviews: Video calls for international or remote applicants.

Group Interviews: Interactive sessions where students engage in activities with peers.

Focus Areas

Communication skills, confidence, leadership qualities, and alignment with the school’s values.

Students may be asked about their interests, accomplishments, and future aspirations.

How Amazing Education Supports Students?

Academic Preparation Courses

SSAT/ISEE Test Preparation:

Tailored courses focusing on verbal, math, and reading comprehension skills.

Timed practice tests, vocabulary drills, and problem-solving workshops.

English Proficiency Training:

TOEFL and IELTS preparation classes with a focus on academic English skills.

Writing workshops and speaking practice tailored for non-native speakers.

Essay Writing Workshops

Expert guidance on crafting compelling personal statements and essays.

Assistance with brainstorming, editing, and proofreading.

Interview Coaching

Mock interviews to build confidence and improve communication skills.

Tips on answering common questions and presenting oneself effectively.

Application Assistance

Help with filling out application forms and organizing required documents.

Guidance on obtaining strong recommendation letters and compiling additional materials.

Portfolio Development

Support for students applying to specialized programs in arts, music, or athletics.

Assistance with creating and presenting portfolios that highlight individual talents.

Personalized Roadmap

Individualized application timelines and strategic planning to meet all deadlines.

Regular progress reviews to ensure students stay on track.

Amazing Education’s Private School Application Preparation Course Structure

SSAT/ISEE Preparation Courses

Course	Target Audience	Focus Areas	Schedule	Key Features
Foundation SSAT/ISEE	Elementary Level (Gr 3-4)	Math basics, vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing sample	2x/week, 1.5 hours each session	Fun and engaging activities; diagnostic tests to assess strengths/weaknesses.
Intermediate SSAT/ISEE	Middle Level (Gr 5-7)	Algebra, advanced vocabulary, analytical reading, essay writing	3x/week, 2 hours each session	Timed practice tests; small-group instruction for personalized attention.
Advanced SSAT/ISEE	Upper Level (Gr 8-11)	High-level math, critical reading, essay structure, test strategies	3x/week, 2.5 hours each session	Real test simulations; focus on time management and advanced problem-solving.

TOEFL/IELTS Preparation Courses

Course	Target Audience	Focus Areas	Schedule	Key Features
TOEFL/IELTS Basics	Beginners in English	Listening, speaking, reading, and writing fundamentals	2x/week, 1.5 hours each session	Focused on building confidence in basic academic English.
TOEFL/IELTS Intensive	Advanced English Learners	Academic writing, complex grammar, note-taking, speaking fluency	3x/week, 2 hours each session	Practice with real exam prompts and peer-reviewed speaking sessions.

Application Support Courses

Course	Target Audience	Focus Areas	Schedule	Key Features
Essay Writing Workshop	All applicants	Brainstorming, structure, editing, and polishing essays	2x/week, 1 hour each session	Personalized feedback and multiple draft revisions.
Application Guidance	Parents and students	Organizing materials, recommendation letters, and timelines	Flexible hours	Expert advice on navigating application platforms and showcasing achievements.

Interview Coaching Courses

Course	Target Audience	Focus Areas	Schedule	Key Features
Mock Interviews	Middle and Upper Levels	Confidence building, common questions, personal presentation	2x/month, 1.5 hours	Individualized coaching with recorded feedback sessions.
Group Interview Workshops	All levels	Team activities, leadership skills, and peer interaction	1x/month, 2 hours	Simulates real group interview scenarios to build collaboration skills.

Specialized Support Courses

Course	Target Audience	Focus Areas	Schedule	Key Features
Portfolio Development	Arts, music, or sports-focused students	Showcasing talents, preparing portfolios	Weekly sessions	Tailored coaching for creating professional and polished submissions.
Time Management Bootcamp	All levels	Planning study schedules and managing deadlines	Bi-weekly, 1.5 hours	Builds organizational skills and reduces application stress.

Sample Curriculum with Examples

SSAT Middle Level – Math Drill:

Topic: Solving equations with variables.

Sample Question: If 3x+7=193x + 7 = 193x+7=19, what is xxx?

Homework: 10 practice problems, with detailed solution explanations.

Essay Writing Workshop – Creative Writing:

Topic: Crafting a compelling introduction.

Prompt: “Describe a moment that changed your life.”

In-Class Activity: Group brainstorming and peer reviews.

Mock Interview Coaching:

Scenario: “Why do you want to attend our school?”

Role Play: Student presents a 1-minute answer, followed by feedback from the coach.

TOEFL Speaking Practice:

Task: “Describe your favorite subject and explain why you enjoy it.”

Activity: Recorded responses for analysis and improvement.

Why Choose Amazing Education?

Expert Faculty: Experienced educators specializing in private school admissions.

Customized Learning Plans: Programs tailored to each student’s strengths, weaknesses, and goals.

Comprehensive Resources: Access to practice tests, study materials, and application tools.

Holistic Support: Guidance on every aspect of the application process, from academics to extracurriculars.

Proven Success: High success rates in placing students in top private schools across North America.

Amazing Education is dedicated to helping students unlock their full potential and gain admission to their dream schools with confidence and success.

Amazing Education helps prepare students in all varieties of academic tests and planning, including: