The Application Process - Start Applications Now - How to Apply to Schools

Sep 15, 2026

Upload by Asher

The document outlines a step-by-step school admission application process, beginning with visiting each school’s admission page and noting that deadlines vary by school. It guides applicants through using school application platforms, confirming whether educational tests such as SSAT or ISEE are required, and scheduling a campus tour and interview with preparation tasks. It explains what schools look for in applicants, describes key benefits of online applications and the main sections of an online form (demographics, essays, test scores, recommendations, supplemental items, and fees), and concludes with instructions on starting applications and connecting for financial aid systems (SSS, Clarity, FAST) verified with the IRS.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages13

Reading Time33 min

AccessFree to download

Where to begin?

Visit the Admission Page for each School

Schedule Campus Tour & Interview

What are schools looking for in an applicant?

Three Platforms

Standard Application Online (SAO)

Gateway to Prep

Ravena

Benefits of Online Applications

Sections of the Online Application

Start Applications Now

Applying for Financial Aid

The Application Process Where to begin? Visit the Admission Page for each School ● Note deadlines-they may differ by school ○ Deadlines are “hard!” ● Look for a school-developed or application platform application checklist ● Check to see which online application platform is used ○ SAO, Gateway to Prep, Ravenna ● Determine if educational tests are required (SSAT, ISEE) Schedule Campus Tour & Interview Before the tour/interview: ● Review the website and write 3-5 questions about the school ● Contact the admission office if there is a coach or teacher or administrator you would like to meet with ● Practice your interview skills with these Interview Tips Schedule Campus Tour & Interview Things to look for during tour: ● Fit is key ● Do you see yourself with the students? ● Do the faculty seem approachable and friendly? ● Does the school have your special interests/sports? Stop a student and ask one of your questions! What are schools looking for in an applicant? ● Demonstrated academic interest and ability ● Demonstrated interest in something outside of school ○ Music ○ Arts ○ Service ○ Sports ● Demonstrated ability to converse in an interview ● “Non-Cognitive variables” ○ Goals and dreams ○ Ability to access help when needed Three Platforms Standard Application Online (SAO) ● Accepted at over 400 independent schools Gateway to Prep ● Includes 60 independent schools Ravena Benefits of Online Applications ● Apply to more than one school using the same application ○ Some schools have a supplemental form specific for their applicants ● Consolidation of application materials (recommendations, transcripts, test scores) ● Easy to get recommendation information to teachers ● Easy to track progress ● Easy to upload artwork, highlight videos Sections of the Online Application ● General demographics family information ● Essays ● Test scores ● Recommendations ● Supplemental Application ○ Additional essay, short answers, etc. specific to each school ● Application fee Start Applications Now ● Need them for teacher recommendations, transcript requests, test scores ● At Crossroads, we ask teachers to complete recs before holiday break ● Schools close for Thanksgiving and Holiday breaks-so not as available to help ● Give you and your student enough time to prepare answers without rushing Applying for Financial Aid Multiple systems: “SSS” Clarity FAST ALL of these verify with the IRS If you are considering applying for financial aid, be sure to connect with the director of financial aid.

FAQs

How should applicants start the school application process?

Begin by visiting the admission page for each school and noting each school’s specific deadlines. Then confirm which online application platform each school uses and whether educational tests (like SSAT or ISEE) are required.

What should applicants do before and during a campus tour and interview?

Before the tour, review the school website and prepare 3–5 questions, and reach out to the admission office to meet relevant staff. During the tour, focus on fit, approachability of faculty, and whether the school supports special interests or sports.

What are the main sections and benefits of an online application?

Online applications consolidate materials such as recommendations, transcripts, and test scores, and can make tracking progress easier. Common sections include general demographics and family information, essays, test scores, recommendations, supplemental application items, and an application fee.

How do financial aid systems work and who should applicants contact?

Financial aid may involve multiple online systems (SSS, Clarity, FAST), which verify with the IRS. Applicants should connect with the director of financial aid if they are considering applying for financial aid.

Sep 15, 2026

Upload by Asher