University School

University School Admission

Our admissions process is designed to be thoughtful, personal and highly informative - giving your family the opportunity to truly experience our community. We invite you to explore, ask questions, and discover what makes University School the right fit for your child.

Is University School the Right Fit?

Is it the right fit? Let’s find out together.

Choosing a school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It’s not just about academics or programs – it’s about finding a place where your child is known, supported and inspired to grow.

At University School, we are a small, relational community. We know our students. We pay attention. We partner closely with families because we believe a child’s success is built on connection between student and teacher; between school and home; and within a community that truly cares.

The admissions process is where that partnership begins. We take time to get to know your child and your family – your hopes, your priorities, and what you’re seeking in a school experience. Just as importantly, we want to help you determine if University School is the right fit for your child.

Our program is intentionally designed to be both challenging and supportive. From our youngest learners to our middle school students, children are encouraged to rise to high expectations in an environment that nurtures creativity, resilience and a genuine love of learning.

Here, students are more than learners. They are thinkers, problem-solvers and valued members of a close-knit community. They ask questions because they’re curious, and that curiosity is encouraged, explored and met with a shared pursuit of understanding. They take on challenges with confidence during their time at University School and beyond.

Having been part of this community for more than two decades – as a USchool parent, volunteer, teacher, student leadership coach and now as Assistant Director for Admissions – I can offer an authentic, insider’s perspective. I’ve seen firsthand the impact of this environment and the way our students grow, not only academically, but as confident, capable individuals who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

Woman in blue blazer smiling

I invite you to explore our website and then visit our campus. I would be delighted to meet your family, hear your hopes for your child and have a conversation about how we can partner together.

Warmest regards,

Regina Ritchie, M.A.
Assistant Director for Admissions and Marketing
University School

Attend an Open House

The best way to learn more about University School is to join us on campus for an informational meeting and tour. We hold group open house tours monthly and welcome individual private tours by appointment.

Open House Dates Open House Registration

Admission Process

Apply

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Apply to the University School via our online application. Once you have begun your application you may move through the process at your convenience. The application process includes:

Application form and questions
Teacher recommendation forms
Academic records request forms
Student Shadow Visit scheduling
$25 Application Fee

Apply Now Pay Application Fee

Two students working together on a project.

Student Shadow Visit

A full-day student shadow visit is recommended for all students and required for students entering kindergarten or higher. This is an opportunity for your prospective student to experience what it is like to be a student at University School. Students are matched with a buddy who will help them throughout the day.

Applications must be completed and the application fee received prior to scheduling a shadow visit.
Any school testing (at the school’s request) or teacher recommendations may be completed after an applicant’s shadow visit.

Parent Interview

Diverse group of smiling students on playground

Choosing a school is not just about your student. You are also choosing a community to join and a second home for your family. The parent interview allows you to meet with the Director to discuss your hopes for your child’s future and get to know the school community better.

Application Deadlines

February 1: Completed applications for first-round March admission due for review by the admissions committee.
February 1: Completed financial aid applications must be completed including tax documentation for review by the financial aid committee.
Early March: Prospective families are notified of admissions decisions
Mid-March: Parent responses to admissions decisions and enrollment fees due to guarantee a seat for your child.
Late March and beyond: Rolling admissions – applications are evaluated as they are completed. Admissions decisions are made as soon as possible after completion. Parents’ signatures and enrollment fees are due two weeks after admission is offered.

Waitlist Process

Students may be put on a waiting list for a particular grade if enrollment for that grade is at capacity. Students remain on the waiting list until spots become available throughout the summer and/or throughout the beginning of the new school year.

Current School Year Admission

Candidates’ applications for the current active school year are reviewed for admittance upon receipt as long as there is capacity in the grade.

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