Applying to Schools: Application Forms

Getting Down to Brass Tacks: The Application Process Explained

Application Forms
Applications are designed to tell the school about each student, and usually contain:

Student Information Form
This form includes basic information about the student such as age, current school, family and interests. Students complete the form and submit it with the school’s application fee.

Student Questionnaire
Most schools will ask the student to answer a few short essay questions. An applicant should view the questionnaire as an opportunity to present his or her personality and to talk about topics of personal interest or importance.

Parent Statement
Some schools will ask the applicant’s parent or guardian to answer a few additional short essay questions about the student.

Teacher Recommendation Forms
Most independent schools request that a student’s current English or Math teacher or School Head provide some information about the student. Some independent schools provide forms for recommendations; others may request a letter from teachers.

Academic Record/School Transcript
Most schools require an official school transcript (the history of school courses and grades), which can be obtained from the student’s current school registrar. Some schools may require a small fee for transcripts.

Go to next topic: Application Forms (part 2).