Applying to boarding school is an exciting journey—but like any journey, it helps to have a map. With so many moving parts—campus visits, testing, interviews, essays, financial aid—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure of where to begin.
Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or already narrowing down your list, this guide will walk you through a general U.S. boarding school application timeline, month by month, so you can stay organized, confident, and ahead of the game—but remember, each school’s deadlines may differ slightly, so make sure to check each one individually before getting started!
Spring & Summer Before Application Year (March–August)
While you may have been thinking about and looking into boarding schools for a while now, this is your time to really start to focus and prepare.
- Start researching schools in a more focused way. Make a list of schools that interest you and visit their websites. Look into academics, extracurriculars, location, dorm life, and anything else that matters to you.
- Schedule campus visits or virtual tours. Many schools offer summer open houses or tours. Seeing a school in person (or online) can really help you get a feel for whether it’s a good fit.
- Begin prepping for standardized tests. Most boarding schools require the SSAT or ISEE, and testing typically begins in the fall. Summer is a great time to start prepping and take practice tests.
- Start thinking about your application story. What are your strengths? What do you enjoy doing? These questions will help shape your essays and interview answers later.
If you’re looking for even more ways to take advantage of your summer break, check out our article on how to effectively plan a productive, enriching, and confidence-boosting summer!
Pro Tip: Create a simple spreadsheet or checklist to keep track of deadlines, requirements, and important dates for each school.
Early Fall (September–October)
It’s go time! Get ready to start officially applying.
- Register for the SSAT/ISEE. These tests are offered multiple times throughout the fall. Try to schedule a date that gives you time to retake it if needed.
- Begin your applications. Many schools use platforms like Gateway to Prep Schools or SAO (Standard Application Online). You can often reuse parts of your application for multiple schools.
- Request teacher recommendations. Give your teachers plenty of notice—early fall is ideal. Most schools ask for two academic recommendations and one from a counselor or advisor.
- Continue visiting schools. Fall is a great time to attend admissions events, student panels, and open houses.
- Start working on your essays. Drafting early gives you time to reflect and revise without rushing.
Pro Tip: Keep a folder (digital or physical) with copies of your writing samples, résumé, and other application materials to stay organized.
Late Fall (November–December)
This is the heart of the application season.
- Take or retake your standardized tests. Most schools want scores by late December or early January.
- Schedule and complete interviews. Some schools interview on campus, while others offer virtual options. Be ready to talk about your interests, experiences, and why you’re excited about boarding school.
- Finalize and submit your essays. By the end of December, you should have polished personal statements and short answers ready to go.
- Begin the financial aid process. If you plan to apply for aid, gather tax documents and submit any required forms, like the Clarity Application.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget thank-you notes! A short email or handwritten note to interviewers and teachers who wrote recommendations goes a long way.
Winter (January–February)
Time to submit and breathe!
- Most applications are due in early to mid-January, though deadlines vary slightly by school. Double-check each one!
- Submit financial aid documents by the school’s deadline. These are usually due around the same time as the application.
- Stay in touch with admissions offices. If you have any updates—awards, grades, new projects—send a quick note to let them know.
- Relax and refocus. You’ve done the hard work. Try not to stress while you wait for decisions!
Spring (March–April)
The finish line is in sight!
- Admissions decisions are typically released in early March.
- Review your offers carefully. This is the time to compare schools, financial aid packages and costs, and any final impressions from your visits.
- Attend revisit days (if offered). These are great opportunities to get one last feel for the school and meet future classmates.
- Make your final decision by early April. Once you’ve chosen your school, you’ll usually need to submit an enrollment deposit to hold your spot.
Applying to boarding school takes time and planning, but by breaking it into manageable steps and following a clear timeline, the process becomes far less stressful—and even exciting. Remember, every part of your application is a chance to show who you are, what you value, and how you’ll contribute to your future school.
Stay organized, start early, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it—Sesameed is here to help, every step of the way. You’ve got this—and your future school is out there waiting to meet you!
