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 children have the same educational journey. Although my child did well academically, they struggled with executive functioning and social-emotional learning throughout high school. Their school lacked the resources and time to help them with the skills to navigate these challenges, making the college transition difficult. Had 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 needed for students to succeed in life.

In my fourth year as an admission 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 help make this 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 school 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:

• Open Houses are large, drop-in overview events for families to explore schools of interest. Activities include self-guided tours of the campus, 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. This fall, we will host Open Houses on Saturday, October 25, and on Saturday, November 15. On October 25, the Middle School event will take place from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, and the Upper School event will take place from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. On November 15, the Upper School event is in the morning, and the Middle School event is in the afternoon in the same time frames. 
• 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 Conversation is an optional, highly encouraged 20-minute virtual meeting with an Admission Team member or senior faculty/staff member for parents/guardians 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. 

If you are unable to attend on-campus events or live out of Washington State, visit our website for detailed information on academics, student life, athletics, extracurriculars, transportation, financial aid, and more. There is a virtual tour of the school campus, too.

Tips for maximizing your school visits:

• Do your research: Before your visits, research each school’s mission statement and educational philosophy to make sure they align with your priorities. Explore the school website, social media, blogs, or other communication materials to understand the community and culture. Life is too busy to visit schools that don’t make sense for your family.
• Plan ahead: Register for all events early, as spaces may be limited and tend to fill up quickly. If you are unable to attend a pre-registered event, please contact the Admission Office so other interested families have the opportunity to join us.
• 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 is mindful that families are busy and will work with you to answer all 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 remember to reach out to a school’s admission team with any questions throughout the process.

Independent school admission offices are dedicated to helping families select a school that best fits their child’s needs. They ensure that your family receives detailed school information, offer numerous admission events, assist with concerns and questions, and help families fill out application forms. 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.