WiseStart™

With the increasing number of applicants applying to independent day and boarding schools, admissions committees have started adapting additional testing tools to the application process. One tool that’s growing in popularity is the Character Skills Snapshot, which was developed by the Enrollment Management Association, makers of the SSAT standardized test. The Character Skills Snapshot is designed for students entering grades 6-12.

By Cheryl, WiseStart™ School Placement Counselor The independent school application process is multifaceted as schools attempt to gain a more well-rounded view of prospective students. However, it’s important to keep in mind that you and your student are interviewing prospective schools just as much as these schools are interviewing you. It’s important to do a little research and come prepared with questions so you can make each meeting with a prospective school as productive as possible.

While many families are aware that the college application process is comprehensive and multi-faceted, far fewer anticipate a similar process for admission to k-12 independent and boarding schools. Although there are significant differences, many younger students will still need to complete testing, interview, and submit an application for middle and high school admissions. The requirements surrounding independent school admissions vary extensively based on the age of your student and the schools on their best-fit list.

The transition from middle school math to high school math can be intimidating. While the middle school experience helps lay a strong foundation for what students experience and learn in high school, that does not mean students are entirely exempt from the natural feeling of nervousness. Luckily, there are a few things middle schoolers and rising 9th graders can familiarize themselves with now in order to prepare for high school-level math.

Watch our expert WiseStart™ counselors discuss the importance of early college prep and how parents can help younger students prepare for success in high school, college, and beyond. Check out the recording of the IvyWise Live webinar Early College Prep and the Importance of Executive Functioning Skills. As the college admissions process becomes ever more complex and competitive, parents often ask, “When should we start?

By Nat, IvyWise WiseStart™ Counselor and College Admissions Counselor As a parent, I find nothing more important and satisfying than seeing my children healthy and happy. A close second may be seeing them enjoy and thrive in school. With that in mind, I acknowledge how lucky my partner and I are to have all the above and so much more.