As a parent myself, I understand the importance and stress that comes with finding the right school for your family. When I was a student, you either attended the neighborhood public school or a nearby religiously affiliated school, with very limited information or choice. I assumed that my child would have the same experience; however, I soon learned that not all families have the same educational journey. Although my child did well academically, they struggled with executive functioning and social-emotional learning throughout high school. Their large high school lacked the resources and time to help them navigate these challenges, making the transition to college difficult. If I learned about the smaller, inclusive community fostered at independent schools sooner, I may have done things differently. Independent schools like UPrep teach challenging academic courses and the skills students need to succeed in life.

In my fifth year as an admissions associate in the UPrep Admission Office, I know the school search and application journey can sometimes feel daunting to families. Below are the types of events most independent schools host, and several tips to make the process easier. 

Admission season begins in September after applications become available online and runs through late spring. Activities range from open houses and campus tours to virtual academic and financial aid webinars. These events are designed to give your family a glimpse into daily life at a school, including academics, extracurricular activities, and the overall community. After you complete an initial application through the online Ravenna application portal, you can register for events.Attending as many offerings as possible at schools that interest your family is a wonderful way to express your student’s interest in the school and to determine if it would be a good fit. 

Types of UPrep Admission Events:

• The Puma Preview is a large, drop-in overview event for families to explore our school. Activities include self-guided campus tours, connecting with faculty as you visit their classrooms, and a resource fair highlighting student life and extracurricular activities, such as sports, fine arts, robotics, and more. 
  • UPrep Puma Preview: Saturday, October 17
    • Middle School event is from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
    • Upper School event is from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 
  • UPrep Puma Preview: Saturday, November 14
    • Upper School event is from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
    • Middle School event is from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 
• Family Campus Tours are small, curated tours for students and parents/guardians where you will visit classes, learn more about our academic programs, chat with students, and enjoy coffee and conversation with the Admission Team and key administrators.
• Student Assessments are a required part of the UPrep application process; both Middle and Upper School applicants participate in an on-campus assessment. Middle School assessments are a fun, interactive group activity where students collaborate with peers to complete a group project, followed by a short writing prompt. Upper School students have a relaxed conversation with a faculty or Admission Team member, followed by a short writing prompt. Assessments allow the Admission Team to meet and learn more about each applicant while gaining insights into the student’s ability, interests, and goals.  
• Parent/Guardian Conversation is an optional, highly encouraged, 20-minute virtual meeting with an Admission Team member or senior faculty/staff member for families to share more about their student and ask any remaining questions about the school.  
• Webinars happen throughout the admission season. UPrep hosts topical webinars for families to connect and learn more about our diverse community. Scheduled webinars include Middle School Academics and Student Life, Upper School Academics and Student Life, LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group, Families of Color Affinity Group, and Admission and Financial Aid 101. 

For families who live outside of the area, please visit our website for detailed information on academics, student life, athletics, extracurriculars, transportation, financial aid, and more. A virtual tour is another great way to explore UPrep.

Tips for maximizing your school visits:

• Do your research: Before your visits, review each school’s mission statement and educational philosophy to ensure they align with your priorities. Explore the school website, social media, blogs, or other communication materials to understand the community and culture.
• Plan: Register for all events early, as spaces may be limited and tend to fill up quickly. If you cannot attend a pre-registered event, please cancel the visit or contact the Admission Office so space can be made available for other interested families.
• Engage: Be on time to events and interact with admission staff, faculty, administrators, and students. Prepare thoughtful questions that give deeper insight into school practices and policies. Attend a variety of events at prospective schools and see how they compare with your student’s educational goals.
• Pay attention to deadlines: Submitting application forms, financial aid applications, standardized test scores, and all other supporting documents before or by the deadline reinforces that your family is serious about your intent to become a member of the community. UPrep knows families are busy and will work with you to answer all of your questions as you complete the application.
• Authenticity matters: We strive to enroll students and families that share our vision and values and can successfully thrive in our academic program. Bringing your student and family’s most authentic self to every event and on the application form is essential in finding a good fit for your student. Answer questions honestly, share strengths and challenges, and reach out to a school’s admission team with any questions throughout the process.

Remember to trust the process and know that your student will discover the best school for their educational journey. Our team is always available to answer questions and assist you with your school search and application. We can’t wait to meet you!

Learn more about UPrep admissions.