application letter for a boarding school

How to Apply to Boarding School

You have a couple of ways to apply to boarding school. Choose the method which is easiest for you.

Apply to the Individual Schools

You can always ask the schools to send you an applications package. Many schools have a 'request information' link on their websites. This will explain the applications procedure for that specific school. You will receive all the applications materials on paper. Complete these by hand or use a typewriter if you still have one around (remember typewriters?). Then snail mail the completed applications to the school.

Most schools will also have online applications. Online application forms have the advantage of saving time for the school because the data gets loaded right into their admissions database. The procedure varies from school to school but basically will have some sort of secure log-in where you will find the instructions on how to apply. You complete some forms online. Others, like the teacher recommendation forms, you will download and print.

Use a Common Application

The SSAT offers an online application service they call The Standard Application Online (SAO) . Or use the Gateway To Prep Schools Application . This greatly simplifies the applications process for schools that use it. You only have to complete one application which is then transmitted to the schools which you specify.

This video explains the SAO.

Stay Organized

Stay organized by using our Applications Calendar . There are many deadlines. And they won't all be the same at different schools. Always submit your application as soon as you can, in any event no later than 2 or 3 weeks before the deadline.

Stay on top of the teacher recommendations and transcripts. Don't leave these until the last minute. Transcripts take time to prepare and certify. Teachers are busy people who will appreciate lots of advance time to draft a thoughtful recommendation for your child.

Pay the application fees. Most schools will accept credit card payments online. Let the school know if you cannot afford the application fees.

This video explains how to use the Gateway To Prep Schools site.

What happens after you apply?

If you applied to a school with a January deadline, you will receive an admissions letter in mid-March. If it is a thin envelope, you probably were rejected. If it is a thick envelope, it will contain an acceptance letter together with forms which must be completed and returned together with a deposit in order to hold your place in the class. It is also possible that the school didn't accept you just yet, but instead put you on a waitlist . If that's the case you will have to wait until sometime in April before hearing whether or not you have a place.

Remember that every application to private school goes through a thorough review process. The more competitive the school, the more exhaustive the review process becomes. So, the question we parents want to be answered is simply: how do we make sure our child's application gets to that final, all-important "Approved" stack of folders. Put another way, how do we ensure that our child's application has legs? (Having legs is an expression that speaks to the endurance of whatever is supposed to have legs.) With respect to admissions applications, the idea is to advance your child's application from one stage of the process to the next until finally, you achieve a positive outcome.

International Students

If you live overseas and are thinking about sending your child to a private school in the United States, pay attention to the following five admissions tips for international students. I am assuming that you are not American citizens or green card holders and that English is not your first language. Many students from countries outside the United States want to attend American private schools. International students make up about 15% of the student population in American boarding schools, according to The Association of Boarding Schools .

This video explains how to obtain a student visa so you can study in the U.S.

You have other options if your application is rejected. A private school does NOT have to accept your child. Private schools can be as picky as they want to be and there is absolutely nothing you can do about it. Unlike public schools which must take every student who resides in their district, private schools select their students on the basis of certain standards and, most importantly, how the application will fit into the school community.

Questions? Contact us on Facebook. @boardingschoolreview

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Admission request application in boarding school.

Admission Request Application in Boarding School . Sample application for admission in boarding school.  S chool with hostel facility  also known as boarding facility. Necessary changes can be done according to requirement.

To, The Principal, Xavier’s High School, Hindpur, India.

Subject: Admission request in boarding school by mother

Respected Sir/Madam,

My son has completed his schooling up to class 8 from xyz school. We have to move from Delhi to Mumbai as his father job demands posting to different cities. We really want him now to settle at one school and complete his studies at one institution and as your institution provides accommodation too so this institution would be great idea. Your institution has a very good reputation and well known for its advanced methods of teaching. He is a very intelligent kid and has been securing scholarships due to his discipline. We shall be thankful to you for admitting our son to your boarding school.

Yours Sincerely,

Ms. Alia Kapoor 25th October 2018

Application for Admission in Boarding School by Father

Subject:  Admission in Boarding School by Father

I am writing this letter for admitting my daughter into your boarding school. She is a very civil kid and participate in every sport day. She has completed her 6th Class recently. I came to know that this boarding school is famous for its intelligent method of teaching and every student is much disciplined and well behaved. I really want her to be successful in future that is why I am choosing this boarding school for her further studies. I am sure that by living here and studying in such a professional way, she will get hold of his own life quickly. I will be grateful if you grant him admission in your boarding school.

Mr. Arjun khanna, 26th October, 2018

Admission Request in Boarding School by Brother

To, The Principal, Delhi Public School, Bhopal, India

Subject: Admission Request in Boarding School

It is to inform you that my little brother has just finished his class 5th in a private school. I got to know about your boarding school from a very reliable source that you organize a lot of quizzes and fun events for the kid which are the part of learning and shape kids future in a way that the get to know what their passion is. Our parents died in a car accident and since then I am earning and have to move cities to cities for work. I believe that your boarding school would be exceptional for my brother’s studies. It would brighten his future to study in high esteemed institution. Please grant his admission in your boarding school.

Yours Faithfully,

Mr Gulati, 26 th November, 2018

Application for School Admission with Boarding Facility

To, The Principal, Loyola High school, Hindupur, India.

With high esteem it is stated that I am a writing this letter for the admission of my sister in your boarding school. I am a married woman and my only sister has no one to look after her beside me. She is a very hard working and dedicated student. She just completed her 7th Class. I want her to continue her studies at your reputable institution so she can shape her future herself in better way. My friend son’s is already studying in your boarding school so I am satisfied that she will be safe here and get quality education as she deserves. Please permit her admission.

Yours Sincerely, Ms. Anushka Arjun,

Admission Request in School with Hostel Facility

Respected Sir,

Respectfully it is stated that I am writing this letter for my cousin’s admission in your prestigious boarding school. His whole family died in a car accident 2 months ago. It has been very critical for all of us to bear such a big loss. I have taken his education process in my hands. I looked for a lot of boarding schools but your boarding school feedback made me contented. He has finished his 4th class recently and I want to get him admitted in your respectable institution. As your institution polishes student strength and abilities that enables them to be successful in future. Please send admission form for further procedure of admission.

Thanking you i remain.

Yours Sincerely, Ms. Anisha Malhotra,

Admission Request Application in Boarding School from Parents

[Your Address][Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number] [Today’s Date]

[School Name] [School Address] [City, State, Zip Code]

Subject: Admission Request for Our Child

Dear Admissions Committee,

We hope this letter finds you in good health. We are writing to express our sincere interest in enrolling our child, [Child’s Full Name], for the upcoming academic year at [School Name], a prestigious boarding school known for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development.

[Child’s Name] is a dedicated and enthusiastic student who has consistently demonstrated a strong passion for learning and personal growth.

Below are the details of our child:

• Full Name of the Child: [Child’s Full Name]
• Date of Birth: [Child’s Date of Birth]
• Gender: [Child’s Gender]
• Current School/Grade: [Current School Name and Grade]
• Parent/Guardian Names: [Your Names]
• Contact Information: [Your Contact Information]

We have taken the liberty to review your school’s curriculum, extracurricular activities, and the overall environment. It is evident that [School Name] aligns with our educational values and goals for our child. We are particularly impressed by your dedicated faculty and the strong sense of community that your school fosters.

Furthermore, we understand that [School Name] maintains a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, and we believe our child’s presence will contribute positively to this environment.

We are excited about the prospect of [Child’s Name] becoming a part of the [School Name] family, and we eagerly anticipate your response.

If you require any further information or wish to discuss this application, please feel free to contact us at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number].

[Your Names]

Application for Boarding School

[Your Address] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number] [Today’s Date]

[Boarding School Name] [Boarding School Address]

Subject: Application for Admission to [Boarding School Name]

I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am writing to express my strong desire to seek admission to your esteemed [Boarding School Name]. Having thoroughly researched and considered my educational options, I believe that [Boarding School Name] offers the ideal environment for my academic, personal, and character development.

Please find below my application details:

• Full Name: [Your Full Name]
• Date of Birth: [Your Date of Birth]
• Gender: [Your Gender]
• Current School/Grade: [Name of Current School, Grade/Class]
• Parent/Guardian Names: [Names of Your Parents/Guardians]

I have been a dedicated and enthusiastic student throughout my academic journey, consistently striving for excellence. In researching [Boarding School Name], I have been impressed by the school’s commitment to academic rigor, a holistic education approach, and the nurturing of leadership skills.

I kindly request your consideration of my application for admission into [Grade Level] for the upcoming academic year [Year]. I am eager to contribute positively to the school community and benefit from the unique opportunities and experiences that [Boarding School Name] provides.

I am prepared to complete all required application forms and fulfill any admission criteria promptly.

Thank you for considering my application. If you require any additional information or wish to discuss this application further, please feel free to contact me at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number].

[Your Full Name]

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10 Tips for Writing a Boarding School Application Essay

• 10 years ago
• Write with passion and honesty. Make sure the subject you choose to write about is one you are truly interested in or passionate about. Make sure it is something you believe in.  
• Before writing your essay think about what you are going to write, outline it and organize it so that it flows correctly and make a strong statement.   
• Use your writing style and let the reader really get to know your personality from the essay.  
• Spend time to construct a well-written essay. Make sure that you are using good grammar and proper punctuation. Don’t forget to use spell check, but also proof your essay to make sure the words you want are the words written. For example, did spell check give you “sense” when you meant “since?”  
• Get into some detail. You really want the reader to feel your descriptions.  
• At the same time, don’t go overboard on the descriptions! Be concise and stick to the requested word limit, if one is provided.  
• If you are writing about the school to which you are applying you should probably get the name correct . That might sound funny, but if you’re using a similar essay for multiple schools, it can be easy to miss changing the name!  
• If you write the essay after your tour and/or interview, write about something specific that happened during your visit to the boarding school.  
• Make sure it is typed with good spacing (1.5 or double).   
• Proof, proof, proof. Proofread your boarding school application essay yourself, then have someone else proofread it.

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NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS Randolph-Macon Academy admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

How To Apply

Your future starts now.

So you’ve decided that boarding school is right for you? Now it’s time to make it happen.

How to Apply

Once you have your shortlist of schools that you’re interested in, it’s time to start the application process. That will consist of campus visits, interviews, entrance exams and applications.  There’s a lot to do, and we’ll help you stay on track every step of the way.

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Admissions Process

You’ve narrowed down your top choices. Next up? Complete the necessary applications for each school.

Application Process

Understanding the boarding school application process is important, no matter what school you decide to attend.

Wherever you decide to go to school, make sure you find out exactly what tests are required to get in.

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There is no greater investment than your child’s education. And it’s important to know that there are financial aid options available to help you fund their future.

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Sample Parent Statement for Private School Admissions

We love sharing practical tips about crafting parent statements on the Admit NY blog - check out our five top tips for writing parent statements here , and our expanded guide to parent statement structure here . 

Sometimes, though, the most helpful way for parents to conceptualize their parent statement is to read a sample. Look no further! Here’s a great sample parent statement that addresses all of the key points that private school admissions officers are looking for.  

Note that this is a fictional parent statement describing a fictional student. 

Sample Parent Statement for High School Applicants

Prompt: please tell us about your child and why you believe [school] would be a good fit for him/her..

Morgan’s most defining quality is that he does not do anything halfway. This has been the case ever since he was a young child: if he started a complicated LEGO set or a science fiction book, he just had to get it done and wouldn’t rest until he did. Morgan lives for the genuine sense of accomplishment that comes along with a job well done, and that commitment carries through his personal life and his life as a student. Morgan is committed to being there for his friends through thick and thin, and is frequently the first one to call or visit a friend when they’re having a difficult day. At school and in extracurriculars, Morgan dives wholeheartedly, and usually with a smile on his face, into each project he takes on and won’t give up until he achieves the result he’s looking for. 

Morgan’s commitment to participating fully in each area of his life, and achieving his goals, was gravely tested during the last year and a half of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like all of us, Morgan struggled for a beat in the early weeks of the pandemic with the sudden distance from his friends and shift to remote learning. But Morgan was quickly back in the saddle, strategizing how to continue doing his best given the changing circumstances. Morgan took the lead on organizing weekly friend hangout sessions with several of his classmates, and the group steadily expanded to reach almost 20 students connecting on Zoom for upwards of two hours each Thursday evening. While many other students resigned themselves to severely limited academic progress in the spring of 2020, Morgan wouldn’t accept it. He emailed his teachers and met with them virtually to plan the best way to maintain his progress toward the goals he’d set at the beginning of the semester. Throughout it all, Morgan was upbeat, sunny, and focused on making the most out of a difficult situation. We were incredibly proud of the way his core commitment to living life to its fullest shone through even in the world’s darkest moments. 

The academic pursuits that Morgan was particularly passionate about keeping up during the pandemic were his math and science classes. Morgan is deeply invested in STEM, and has a natural aptitude for numbers and scientific thinking. Math, particularly algebra, is very satisfying to Morgan; it might be because the sense of accomplishment that comes along with solving a difficult algebra formula mirrors that sense of accomplishment Morgan enjoys when he brings any sort of project to completion. 

While math and science are Morgan’s favorite subjects, he is a well-rounded student with strong skills in English. Morgan has been a voracious reader since first grade, and it was difficult to provide a steady enough stream of books during the pandemic to satisfy his increased capacity for reading. (Once again, the satisfaction of turning the last page on a long, fascinating book is one of Morgan’s sincere joys.) One of the creative ways that Morgan brought his friends together during quarantine was a monthly book club. While the students were already reading a couple of classic novels in their English class, they decided that they wanted to venture into science fiction reading as well. Morgan and one of his best friends researched a variety of sci-fi novels, organized them into a selection for each month, and led a monthly book club meeting to discuss their favorite parts. We eavesdropped a little on one of these meetings and heard the boys enthusiastically debating which would be “cooler,” settling on the moon or on Mars, based on a storyline in their most recent novel. 

Outside of school and his monthly book club, Morgan is committed to athletics. In his first weeks of middle school, Morgan decided that he wanted to join the cross country team. Morgan had never been seriously involved in sports before, and frankly we (his parents) are not particularly athletic! But a few of Morgan’s friends loved their sports teams, and Morgan was interested in trying something new. So, he began attending cross country practice after school almost every weekday. At first, Morgan didn’t really like running. He was struggling to get through the team’s longer runs, and doing anything halfway is not Morgan’s favorite thing. Progress seemed far off, and we thought that Morgan would ultimately quit cross country. But all of the sudden, Morgan started seeing improvement. In true Morgan fashion, he took the initiative to pick out a running book from the library and read it in three days flat, immediately implementing some improvements to his running stride. Within two months, Morgan was able to finish longer runs, and started inching up the leaderboard at team meets. These days, Morgan is a casual but enthusiastic runner. He knows that he isn’t destined to be the fastest athlete on the team, but he finds real fulfilment in constantly seeking to beat his personal record. After finishing a particularly fast run along the West Side Highway with a friend last week, Morgan got home sweaty, panting, and smiling, and said “I think I’m finally getting the hang of this!”

As Morgan approaches the search for a high school, he is as committed as ever to participating fully in the process and not doing anything halfway. He hopes to join a community of similar students, who are ambitious, kind, passionate learners, and interested in a diverse variety of subjects and activities. Morgan has always enjoyed building relationships with his teachers so we are also seeking a school where teachers are approachable and accessible. Morgan also appreciates an environment where he and his peers are encouraged to take initiative and craft their own projects. For all of these reasons (and many more), we believe that [SCHOOL] would be a great fit for Morgan. With a close-knit and engaged student body that participates in a wide variety of classes and clubs, Morgan would have no problem finding STEM friends, running friends, and reading friends. He would love [SCHOOL]’s independent study program; developing an innovative project idea, recruiting friends to join him, and executing the project all the way through completion are all Morgan’s unique strengths. We feel confident that if Morgan attended [SCHOOL], he would graduate with a broad portfolio of successes that reflect the school’s commitment to helping every student harness their passion, and Morgan’s commitment to doing his very best. 

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11 Parent Statement Tips for Private School Applications

Private schools aim to collect as much information from different sources about prospective students as possible during the application process. The perspective provided by parents and guardians is highly valued because no one knows your child better than you.

The real question is, how do you provide insight on an application form that helps schools see your child’s unique qualities?

Let’s review guidelines for the types of questions you’re likely to encounter below. The exact questions will vary from school to school, so the crucial takeaway when writing parent statements is to use examples and stories . For example, show how your child is creative, resilient, or empathetic through specific anecdotes instead of statements.

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<span class="text-color-orange" role="decoration">General Parent Statements</span> 

Many applications include a prompt similar to this: "A parent/guardian's perspective on your child's strengths and weaknesses is valuable. Please write a statement of recommendation for your child." When responding, keep the following guidelines in mind.

• One paragraph should review how your child is "smart," but don’t discuss grades or test scores here. Instead, focus on how your child is academically engaged and intellectually curious. Use stories and anecdotes to add depth. 
• Another paragraph, describe your child's character and personality. Don’t list adjectives here. Rather, use stories to bring your child to life on the page. 
• Finally, it's important to cover any challenges your child has faced and, most importantly, how they have overcome these challenges. Most schools ask about challenges and they can be wary if parents don't mention any.
• Avoid using too many words. Edit down your first draft so that the main statement is no more than three to five sentences per paragraph, and make sure to heed suggested word counts requested by the schools. Admissions teams have a lot of files to read, and if your essay is too long, you risk them skimming it and missing out on your key points.

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<span class="text-color-lightblue" role="decoration">School-Specific Questions </span>  

"Why are you applying to [our] school?" is another common question. These tips will help your answer stand out.

• Take notes on what the school says about themselves during open houses, visits, tours, etc. What is their mission statement? What are their stated values? Keep these notes handy as you eloquently match the school to your child and family. Again, use examples that really stick. 
• If you’ve visited the school or attended an open house, draw on SPECIFIC examples from your experience. Make sure your response is UNIQUE to your family and student. Don't list adjectives about the school. Tell a story or give an example about why you think your student would thrive in their environment. Is it the school's philosophy or the art program? The experiential learning component? Make sure to match this element to your child. 
• Review all answers before submitting the application to make sure you have the correct name of each school. It’s a common mistake for parents to cut and paste the wrong school name—and that’s never a good typo! 

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<span class="text-color-green" role="decoration">“Is there any further information?” </span>  

Given that applications have a limited number of questions for parents, each with word counts, this one provides valuable “real estate” to illustrate who your child is and something unique they would bring to the school. Here are some ways to take advantage of this opportunity that most parents skip. 

• This space can be used to tell the school about a learning difference that you think is relevant. If you think this will show up in your child’s record, it is a good idea to show that you know what is hard for your child and how you have partnered with the current school to help them succeed. 
• You could also use this section to describe the student’s diverse background of any kind. Schools are looking to create the most textured class possible. What will your child bring that is unique? 
• This question could be a space to tell a story that illustrates a difficult moment for your family and how your child coped. Habits of heart and mind are becoming more important for schools; they’re often screening for qualities like resilience. 
• Overall, you can discuss anything that wasn’t covered in the other parts of the application here. The information in this section should be relevant to understanding the student holistically and help the reader make sense of any apparent “holes” in the application. Keep in mind that this is not necessarily a place to list accolades or accomplishments. 

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<span class="text-color-orange" role="decoration">Thank You Notes </span>   

It’s always a good idea to send a thank you to the admission office or interviewer after a meeting or event. An email is fine, and in some ways, it’s easier since so many schools have paperless files. When you do this, think about the guidelines above and use this opportunity to match your unique child and family to the unique school!

Jamie Moffett is the founder of Walking Feet Advisors , an advising practice for families applying to independent schools. She previously served as the director of admission K–8 at Marin Country Day School in Corte Madera, Calif., where she worked for the last eighteen years.

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Parent Statements For Private High School Admissions

Christopher Coleman

December 2, 2020

When writing Parent Statements for private high school admissions, you must remember : you’re not writing your child’s resumé. For the purposes of this article, pretend that you are no longer a parent of a boarding school applicant. Instead, you are a boarding school admissions officer. Your job is to review applications and identify the applicants that are the best fit for your school from a large applicant pool. As a boarding school admission officer, you will read each page of every single admission application, which is standard operating procedure. 

In reviewing admission applications, you will read Parent Statements for private high school admissions . They will, hopefully, provide you with further information about the applicant. See, teacher recommendations primarily describe an applicant from an academic perspective. Transcripts will paint the picture of how much care the applicant puts into his or her studies. An activity list will explain how the applicant spends time outside of the classroom. What completes the applicant’s profile is information about them from the parents’ perspective, a unique vantage point that can provide very important information…or not.

As an admissions officer, Parent Statements can influence you in one of three ways: excite you, frustrate or bore you, or make little impression on you at all. 

What Should Entail Parent Statements for Private High School Admissions?

For whatever it’s worth, I am the parent of a child who is both a boarding school graduate and a college graduate. I have experienced both sides of the admission process, so I know the position in which you are in currently. 

Now, you might be thinking, “How can Parent Statements be anything but helpful and wonderful as they are written by kind, caring, and loving parents who only seek to support their children’s candidacies, Christopher?” In composing Parent Statements for private high school admissions , the writers  are only being, well, parents. More often than not, though, a parent’s point of view might come off as too promotional or lacking in objective insights. Translation: parents embody the statement made famous by Malcom X in that they wish to help their children gain admission to a school “by any means necessary,” touting their child as the second coming of Marie Curie, Serena Williams, or Stephen King. In reality, even though they are written with good intentions, these types of Parent Statements hurt their child’s application the most.

Let’s be honest. Parent Statements rarely make or break the success or failure of an admission application. Only in very rare cases has an applicant been accepted or denied admission solely based on the weight of a Parent Statement. So, it is best for parents to provide honest and objective information that will determine what kind of impact your child could make if he or she were to join that school’s community. 

Examples of Parent Statements

With that said, we’ll use the prompt and Parent Statement copied below as a sample for what ingredients should go into successful Parent Statements for private high school admissions .

Prompt: Please share with us the values you've instilled in your child and how our community might benefit from those values/lessons.

Response: We’ve taught our son Jimmy the value of volunteering and that not only does it benefit others, but that volunteering can also be a benefit to himself. Following our suggestion, Jimmy chose to volunteer on Saturdays at our neighborhood’s community center. He tutors younger kids in math and science. While the community center director has explained to my husband and me that Jimmy seems to be in a “happy place” whenever he tutors. The director also pointed out that Jimmy has a lot of fun interacting with the other children. My husband and I also noticed an increase in Jimmy’s grades since he started volunteering. You know what they say, the best way to learn is to teach.

Even more, Jimmy has also found that helping others is a practical way to further his own interests. During summer break, Jimmy loves to go fishing, but knows that he cannot go to the lake behind our house without being accompanied by an adult. My husband and I work during the day Monday through Friday and have lots of chores and errands on the weekends. So in previous summers, we have not had much time to take Jimmy fishing. To solve this issue, Jimmy taught his grandmother how to fish and goes fishing with her almost every day!

Experiencing firsthand the benefits of helping out others has made a positive impact on Jimmy’s life. My husband and I believe that as a student at your school, Jimmy would be likely to join or supervise a community service project or choose to become a peer tutor.  

Assessing the Example

Using the above example, here is how you, as an admission officer, should assess it:

• Clean writing. There are no spelling or grammar errors and the sentences should flow together. You should expect to compose several drafts for each of your Parent Statements. Take the time in between each draft so that you read each draft with a fresh perspective. 
• Answer the prompt. In directly answering the prompt, the Parent Statement provided a load of information about Jimmy. It pays for parents to brainstorm their child’s positive personality traits prior to responding to each prompt. These descriptors can act as a guide and give direction to the answer.
• No GPAs or academic accolades were found in this response.   I understand being proud of a child’s academic performance as a parent. However, the admissions officer will gain an understanding of that through academic transcripts and recommendations. Your job is to give further perspective on your child. Jimmy’s grades improved as a result of his behavior, but the grades themselves were not included.
• Tell a story…but not a novel. First and foremost, everyone likes a good story. Why do you think we watch movies and read books? The above example provides insight into Jimmy’s personality and his character. His academics have improved since becoming a tutor. He derives joy from helping and interacting with other children. He likes to fish. His family has set rules that Jimmy follows. One also learns that Jimmy is a problem-solver and has a positive relationship with family members from older generations. Lastly, by teaching his grandmother to fish, he now can participate in an activity he enjoys. The implication in all of this is that, if accepted, these are the qualities that Jimmy has to offer any school.
• Parent Statements do not have to be as dry as legal documents or tax forms or be as tedious to read as assembly directions for an Ikea dresser. Adding interesting details or humor to a Parent Statement will benefit its readability.
• Imagine a stack of Parent Statements stretching from your living room’s floor to its ceiling. As you are still reading this article, you are still an admissions officer. If your school requires each applicant’s parents to write five Parent Statements and during the course of an admission cycle you need to read 853 or more admission applications, you might just end up reading thousands of Parent Statements. From that perspective, you become quite eager to read Parent Statements that neither bore you, are majorly hyperbolic nor leave you with little to no insights into the applicant.

I hope that this blog has provided you with the basics towards building great Parents Statements for private high school admissions . When writing them, remember to think like an admission officer and not as a parent. If you were reviewing an admission application, what kind of Parent Statements would you find enjoyable to read and most insightful into an applicant’s personality? Did the Parent Statement you wrote meet those two criteria?

My best advice to you: Parent Statements are only meant to tell the parents’ side of a child’s story, not all of it. Put the care and attention into telling your side of your child’s story and do it well, leaving a positive impression.

Tags : how to write parent essays , Parent Statements for private high school admissions , boarding school admissions , private high school admissions , parent essays

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Boarding Schools Expo Australia

For families considering boarding school

Destination Boarding... from wherever you call home

Our top tips for scholarship and bursary applications.

January 17, 2023 By Ruby Riethmuller

Edited by Amanda Ferrari Boarding Schools Expo Australia

It may seem simple but is often overlooked: don’t be afraid to ask.

In the lead-up to becoming a new boarding family at a school, you consider it a real privilege that your child has been given a spot and you’re often immersed in completing a myriad of forms and getting ready for all the opportunities.

For many families, the financial commitment of boarding school can put a grey cloud above the whole situation, but it doesn’t necessarily need to.

Most schools have funds available to ensure diversity in their cohorts through investing in prospective and current students with the offer of scholarships and bursaries. While it may not be easy to find on a school’s website you can definitely find out via Boarding Schools Expo Australia’s website where there is a comprehensive list of each school’s offerings and closing dates for applying.

The Australian Boarding Schools Summit available on demand via Boarding Expo 365 had an entire segment dedicated to the financial implications of sending a child to boarding school – there’s some absolute gold in that. Watch it.

Just know that there is no shame in asking for financial support. The worst a school can say is ‘no,’ though even then, I would respectfully challenge it.

Position your child as their authentic self – resist the urge to create a ‘box ticking’ application.

Focus on your child’s true character, their values, the things they love doing and are interested in, the things that bring them joy, the things that challenge them and the way they interact with family, peers, teachers and other members of the community.

If the school asks for a personal statement written by your child, please let them write it.

Schools can tell almost instantly when parents have tried to write the letter from the perspective of a 12-year-old. Whether they write about how much they care about the climate crisis or John Deere tractors, let their individual flare convert to paper so the school can get a genuine understanding of your child.

Make sure you focus on what your child will bring to the school, not just on how they will benefit from the experience.

You may need an accountant for the finer details for some scholarships & bursaries.

Your accountant may need to provide details on your personal financial position for certain types of bursaries. There are many bursaries and scholarships that are provided to families who otherwise would not be able to send their child/ren to the boarding school of their choice. Things like your assets and liabilities; your profit and loss; your statement of position. All things your accountant will be across. Ask the school you’re enquiring to about their requirements for financial assistance.

Ensure your application is specific to the school you’re applying to.

Just like applying for a job, you want whoever’s reading the application to know that you’ve done your research.

They don’t want to know how much your child wants to be a boarder as much as they want to know how much your child wants to be a boarder at their school.

Within your application some of the things you could address include :

• How your child’s personal values and your family values align with the school values;
• How the teaching style will compliment your child’s natural learning ability;
• How the physical environment and facilities will be of benefit to their growth;
• What kind of leadership opportunities you feel your child would embrace;
• What school-specific events or activities you believe they would want to be involved in;
• Why your child would take pride in being a student at the school.

Talk about the process and the financial commitment with your child.

Where appropriate, don’t be afraid to involve your child in the conversation.

It can be a good opportunity to make them aware of the financial sacrifice of sending a child to boarding school without making them feel fearful or guilty.

Having an ‘adult’ conversation about it with them may make them feel better-informed and trusted with the information.

For more information check out our Australian Boarding Schools Summit 2022 panel discussion, But how are we going to pay for it? Now available on-demand at Boarding Expo 365 (our Virtual Expo open 365 days). Jen Cowley OAM speaks with representatives from education foundations, Indigenous scholarship providers, investment companies helping you plan and the schools themselves.

PANEL: Alana Moller – Federal President of the ICPA, Waverley Stanley – Yalari Director, Alistair Edmunds – EdStart, Jo Grinham – The King‘s School

For Schools

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Resources for Academic Success

Looking for more information to help you find your direction towards academic success?

Welcome to our blog - a resource of top tips and strategies for ambitious students and families!

Studying law has traditionally been seen as the purview of the academically elite, and the practice of it even more so. To gain a place on such a competitive course at a top UK university, how should you choose the subjects which will maximise your chances of success? How much work experience or extra-curricular debating and MUN is sufficient? If you fail to secure a place on your desired law course, what options do you have? Read on to find out!

Grades and teacher recommendations are the primary ways schools evaluate students' academic readiness in the US boarding application process. However, SSAT provides another data point for students to increase academic confidence. When deciding whether to send your SSAT scores to a boarding school, there are a few things to consider.

Recommendations are crucial when applying to US boarding schools. They provide valuable insights into who you are as a student and a person. A strong recommendation can showcase your strengths and potential, while a weak one can raise concerns. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities and character to ensure a strong recommendation. Schools typically require recommendations from your current-year English Teacher, Math Teacher, and School Counselor. Some schools may allow or require additional recommendations, such as one from an area of interest or a personal recommendation. A personal recommendation from someone who knows you well is better than a general one from someone with power or prestige.

When selecting the right boarding school for your child, it's important to do your research. For many families, the process typically begins with the school's website. Most boarding school websites show happy students engaged in classes and activities. They feature impressive buildings and unique programs. Most have a small faculty-to-student ratio and offer impressive pathways to the top US universities. Families often come to us excited about what boarding schools provide and need clarification about how to tell them apart, making it challenging for them to come up with a school list or define their top choices once they’ve applied. Here are a few things we recommend considering in your search for the right fit.

While academic performance is undoubtedly important, other factors can also play a significant role in your application. Two of the most important aspects that admissions officers seek are leadership and school involvement.

You have written a compelling personal statement, passed any aptitude tests or written assessments with flying colours, and reached the infamous Oxbridge interview stage. Congratulations, but how are you going to ace your life’s most important thirty minutes to date, and what should you do when you are presented with seemingly irrelevant questions in an Oxbridge interview? As cliché and obvious as it may sound, Oxbridge are looking for someone with the academic potential and being the best, if not at least one of the best, in their chosen course. Therefore, any apparently unrelated questions that you could have been asked in the interview are in fact, subject specific.

Whichever university you apply to, there is always the practical need for university budgeting besides admissions planning. Read on to find out how you should kickstart university planning in ways that would allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Are you noticing any signs of stress or anxiety in your child as they prepare for their upcoming US boarding school interview? It's understandable for them to feel a bit nervous, but there are things you can do to help ease their concerns. Encourage them to practice their interview skills with you or a trusted friend or family member. Remind them to stay calm and confident and to be themselves during the interview. Reassure them that their hard work and achievements have already gotten them this far and that the interview is another step in the process. With support and guidance, your child can approach their interview with a positive attitude and a sense of preparedness.

5 Tips for Getting Great Recommendation Letters for US Boarding School

Here are five tips to help you get great letters of recommendation:  

• Choose recommenders who know you best. At the start of school, remember that in just a few months, your teachers will write your boarding school recommendations. It's crucial to form good relationships early in the school year. Admissions officers want to get a sense of who you are as a student and person, so it's important to choose recommenders who can speak to your academic abilities and character. This could be a teacher, coach, or mentor who has worked with you closely.   
• Ask Teachers & coaches who have challenged & pushed you to be your best self. You want your recommendation letters to highlight your strengths and potential, so choosing recommenders who can speak to those qualities is important.   
• Be an active learner. Remember that your teachers will write your boarding school recommendations in just a few months. Be engaged in class, ask questions, and contribute to the school community. Remember, any disciplinary action or poor behavior will likely appear in your recommendations.   
• Ask in person. Students, rather than parents, should ask teachers for recommendations. It can be intimidating, but teachers are there to support you and want to see you succeed. Don't hesitate to ask for their guidance and recommendations when needed. It's all part of the learning process and will ultimately benefit you in the long run.   
• Give your recommenders time & information. Be sure to give your recommenders all the information they need to write a thoughtful, detailed letter. This includes your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities.

Follow these tips, and you'll be well on your way to getting great boarding school recommendation letters. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact us. We're here to help! Click here to schedule an initial consultation with our US Boarding School Counseling team.

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Similar Letters

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• Write down your reason and intent for your application.
• Include or list down the qualifications that you have.
• End on a positive tone.

SAMPLE LETTER

[Letter Date]

[Subject: Normally bold, summarizes the intention of the letter] -Optional-

Dear [Recipients Name],

I am writing to you to inform you of my desire to enter your prestigious school for my high school education. You will find enclosed the necessary documents to support my application. Also, you will find that I am very much qualified to enter your school due to my various merits such as: (insert values here) I look forward to your favorable response.

Sincerely, [Senders Name] [Senders Title] -Optional-

[Enclosures: number] - Optional - cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -

Application letter for high school. Sample letter.

Further things to consider when writing application letters to schools

Application Letters

Application letters are letters that you write to formally request for something from authority, apply for a job, or join an institution. Effective application letters will give a detailed explanation for your interest in the specific item, company, or institution. They showcase your abilities and strengths and illustrate your experience. In most cases, people write application letters to express their interest in receiving a position, attending an institution, or when applying for a visa, for instance. In all scenarios, application letters must be accompanied by the relevant documents. Application letters are the perfect tool to demonstrate something of your personality. Therefore, you should write in a professional tone setting a clear outline that allows the reader to scan the primary data quickly. Introduce yourself and briefly explain your intent and reason for the application. Address the letter with a title or name of the recipient. If your application is for a job or to join an institution, for example, you need to highlight your experience and qualification; if you are applying for a travel visa, make sure to state a clear intention for your travel. End with a positive tone and invite the recipient to contact you.

Letters to Schools

Letters to schools are letters written to institutions designed to provide learning environment and spaces to pupils and students. There are many times when you may feel the need to write to a school administration. Maybe you want to recommend a student or employee or want to apply for an academic program. Perhaps your child has a disability, and you want to make sure that he/she is receiving special education services. Whatever the issue, putting your thoughts in writing avoids confusion since it provides you and the recipient with a record of your request. It is, therefore, crucial to keep a copy of any letter you send. All letters to schools must use the standard business letter style. Start your letter with the proper address and salutation. Introduce yourself and explain the reason for your letter clearly and concisely. Depending on the content of your letter, provide any documentation that gives the recipient reference to the case or clarifies your concerns. Keep the tone polite, respectful, and professional. Close by thanking the recipient for his/her time and with a note of anticipation of positive feedback. Sign off and proofread the final draft before sending it.

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Zimbabwe High School Application Requirements

For entry into form 1, some schools require the following:

• Grade 7 certificate
• Grade 6 third term report
• Passport-sized photos
• Copy of the birth certificate
• A nonrefundable application fee

Enrolment for other forms is done throughout the year and may require the following;

• Current  term report
• Recommendation letter from the previous school
• A non-refundable application fee
• There may also be an assessment exam

Do I need a visa to study in Zimbabwe?

All students intending to study in Zimbabwe must apply for a student visa or study permit. This permit is issued to a person who intends to enter and reside in Zimbabwe to attend any educational institution. Parents of minors and students who want to study in Zimbabwe must apply for a visa or study permit at any Zimbabwean embassy.

Requirements for a Zimbabwean student visa include:

• Fully completed Residence permit Application Forms (IF5)
• A valid passport, valid for 6 months from the date of entry.
• Copy of Passport bio-data page
• Two passport size photos
• An Application letter requesting for a permit addressed to the Chief Director of Immigration n Zimbabwe
• Proof of accommodation (or letter from an institution or school offering to provide accommodation)
• Proof of payment of fees in foreign currency
• Chest X-ray certificate/ medical records/ medical clearance
• Police clearance from the country of residence (not older than 6 months)
• A Letter of acceptance from the school
• A non-refundable Statutory application fee of US $200

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Zimbabwe Information

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Lupane State University

The university was established through an act of the Zimbabwe parliament in 2004 and opened its doors to 14 pioneer students in the faculty of Agricultural Sciences in August 2005. The expansion of university education in Zimbabwe is part of government policy adopted at the onset of independence.

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Africa University - Mutare

Africa University opened its doors in 1992, AU a non- profit Christian University with its campus setting in the largely mountainous region of Mutare, east side of Zimbabwe. This institution has also branch campuses in the following location(s): Harare officially accredited and/or recognized by the Higher Education Board of Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University - Bindura

Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University (ZEGU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees in several areas. ZEGU is a degree-awarding institution accredited by the Zimbabwe Council of Higher Education (ZIMCHE) offering internationally recognized degrees in various faculties.

Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences

Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees in Sciences field. Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences offers four faculties namely Agricultural Science, Science, Natural Resources, and Tourism and Engineering.

Women's University in Africa

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Harare Institute of Technology (HIT)

The university, then transformed into a Technical College offering courses in automotive, electrical, and mechanical engineering, producing artisans capable of operating and maintaining machinery in the industry with little or no research or generation of new technology-related knowledge and skills.

Catholic University of Zimbabwe (CUZ)

(CUZ) is has very small enrollment between one thousand to two thousand students per each semester. It is a coeducational higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian- Catholic religion. This 21-year-old higher- education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations.

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