How to Navigate Private School Admission Events

What They Are, Why They Matter, and How to Make the Most of Them

If you're applying to private schools, especially in a competitive market like Los Angeles, you’ll quickly notice just how many admission events schools offer. Open Houses, tours, coffees, student visits, there are many options! But these events are more than just boxes to check; they’re a valuable window into each school’s community, philosophy, and day-to-day life. Admission events are not just information sessions, but meaningful opportunities to explore school fit. Here's a breakdown of what to expect, how to prepare, and why your attendance truly matters.

Types of School Admission Events

Most schools offer several kinds of events designed for different stages of the admissions process. Each serves a unique purpose:

Open Houses These are typically larger events that offer an overview of the school’s mission, curriculum, extracurriculars, and campus life. You'll likely hear from the Head of School, teachers, and sometimes current students and parents. Open Houses are often on weekends and both parents and students are encouraged to attend.

Campus Tours Tours are smaller and often occur during the school day, giving parents a firsthand look at classrooms in action. These visits are a great way to observe how students and teachers interact and to see the school in session on a regular day.

Parent Coffees / Information Sessions These informal small group gatherings are a chance to engage directly with school leaders or current parents. They’re ideal for asking questions in a low-pressure setting.

Shadow Days or Student Visits For older applicants (typically middle or high school), shadow days allow students to sit in on classes and experience a what it is like to attend a particular school. These visits also give the school a chance to get to know your child and to see how your child interacts with other students.

Why Should You Attend?

In a city like Los Angeles where schools have more applicants than spaces, your engagement matters. Attending events shows your sincere interest and allows you to connect with each school beyond its website or brochure. Schools want to enroll families who are excited to join their community.

Attending events enables you to get a gut feeling about a school.  It is much more informative than studying a website! These events help you assess whether a school’s culture and values align with your family’s.

Should Students Attend?

• Preschool and early elementary applicants usually do not attend early events but will participate in assessments or play-based visits later on.

• Middle and high school applicants often take part in open houses, interviews, and shadow days. If a school offers a student visit, it’s often a key component of the application process.

How Many Events Should You Attend?

You don’t need to attend every event a school offers, but you will get additional information at each visit . For your top choice schools, attending multiple types of events (such as an open house, a tour and a coffee) can provide deeper insight. Remember, you're not just applying to schools, you're seeking a community where your child will be known, supported, and inspired.

Schools notice thoughtful engagement. Showing up,  listening closely, and asking meaningful questions is a great way to show genuine interest. Going to events is an opportunity for you to develop a relationship with people at the school. 

What Will You Learn?

Each event will give you a different view into school life:

• Educational philosophy: How does the school approach learning, social-emotional development, and student growth?

  Programs: What enrichment, arts, and sports are available?

• Community values: What is the school’s culture around inclusion, parent involvement, and student leadership?

• Logistics: You’ll hear about class size, daily schedules, transportation, and more.

You’ll also get a feel for the intangibles—things like warmth, student engagement, and the tone of communication between staff and families.

When and How to Sign Up

Admission events usually begin in September or October, with registration opening as early as July or August. Spots are limited for each event and they often fill quickly, so sign up as early as you can! To sign up you should visit each school’s admissions page where you will find event dates and registration links. Some schools put event registration in the inquiry forms.  You can inquire and register for events at the same time. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to email the admissions office, they’re happy to help.

Admission events are one of the most important tools you have when deciding where to apply and eventually, where to enroll. Take advantage of your visits to get as much information as you can, trust your instincts, and ask the kinds of questions that matter most to your family. I help families interpret what they’re seeing and hearing at these events, and how to compare schools thoughtfully. If you’re feeling uncertain about where to start or how to prioritize, please reach out to me,  I'm happy to guide you through the admission process.