What if I can’t attend an admissions open house?
It’s best to attend a private school admissions open house whenever possible. These events are a vital opportunity to experience and learn about the school and start building a rapport with the admissions team.
Inform the school if you can’t attend an open house due to travel distance or scheduling conflicts, and ask if they have other options to connect, see the school, and ask questions. This communication will let them know your family is sincerely interested in their school.
If you are local, the school may be able to schedule a personal visit and tour. They might also offer virtual open houses for families living too far away to travel. Schools are also typically happy to connect you with current families for reference and staff members if there is a particular program you are interested in learning about.
Other steps you can take to make sure you don’t miss important application process information, and to learn about the school include:
- Complete the school’s online inquiry form to receive an admissions packet and get on their admissions email list.
- Research the school through its website, social media profiles, and external review websites. Think of questions that you can ask during the interview process.
- Follow up with any family or faculty references that the school provides. These conversations will likely get back to the admissions committee, as it is another way they can gauge your interest.
- Start working on the admission application and financial aid requirements immediately. Put the deadlines into your calendar.
- Schedule the admissions interview and tour.
Set up a Standard Application Online account to streamline the documentation and save time applying to multiple schools.
