Private School Admissions: Your questions answered!

As an educational consultant, I help families navigate each step of the admissions journey. Here are answers to some of the questions I hear most often from parents applying to private schools in Los Angeles.

1. How many schools should we apply to?

There is no magic number! The right number depends on your child's profile, your family's priorities, and the schools you are considering. Keep in mind that private-school admissions can be competitive, and some factors affecting admission decisions are beyond your control. These may include the number of available spaces, siblings of current students, and children of alumni. I generally recommend applying to approximately four schools, although some families may need a shorter or longer list. The most important consideration is that every school on your list should be one you would genuinely be happy for your child to attend.

My advice: Focus on finding the right fit rather than applying to as many schools as possible. A thoughtful, well-researched list gives you options while keeping the process manageable.

2. Does it matter when we submit our application?

Whenever possible, I recommend submitting your application before the deadline rather than waiting until the last minute. Starting early gives you time to review your application carefully, address any technical issues, and arrange interviews or other required appointments while more scheduling options may be available.

However, submitting early does not guarantee an admissions advantage. What matters most is submitting a thoughtful, complete application that accurately represents your child and family.

My advice: Give yourself plenty of time. Admissions applications often require more thought and coordination than parents initially expect!

3. What kind of photo should we submit?

You do not need professional photographs of your child or family. The purpose of the photo is to help the admission team put faces to names and get a sense of who you are. Choose a clear, recent photo in which your child is facing the camera, without sunglasses or anything obscuring their face. A natural smile is lovely, but there is no need to stage the perfect picture. A photo taken in your backyard can work just as well as a professional photograph from a special occasion.

My advice: Keep it simple and authentic. The goal is to help the admission team get to know your family, not to impress them with a photograph.

4. How many school events should we attend?

School events are an excellent opportunity to learn about a school beyond what you can find on its website. They allow you to observe the community, ask questions, and determine whether the school's philosophy and environment feel right for your family.

Depending on the school, opportunities may include campus tours, open houses, parent coffees, athletic events, performances, and other community gatherings.

You do not need to attend every event. Instead, choose those that will help you learn something meaningful about the school. Be sure to review each school's expectations and admissions guidelines regarding event attendance.

My advice: Attend thoughtfully and take the opportunity to engage with the community. You may discover something at an event that changes how you view a school or confirms that it is a wonderful fit.

5. Do we need personal recommendations?

Every school has its own requirements, so read the application instructions carefully.

Some schools request personal recommendations or references, while others do not accept them. Submitting unsolicited recommendations when they are not permitted may not help your application and could conflict with the school's guidelines.

If recommendations are requested, choose someone who knows your family or child well and can speak genuinely about the qualities that make your child unique.

My advice: Follow each school's instructions. More information is not necessarily better if it is not requested.

 

6. How should we prepare for a school interview?

Preparation can help both parents and children feel more confident. Start by reviewing the school's mission, educational philosophy, programs, and community. Think about what genuinely attracts your family to that particular school. Parents should be prepared to discuss their child's strengths, interests, learning style, and areas of growth, as well as the kind of environment in which their child thrives.

For children, preparation should be age-appropriate. Encourage them to share their interests, talk about what they enjoy, and ask questions when appropriate.

The goal is not to memorize answers or present a perfect version of your family. It is to help the school understand who you are and determine whether there is a mutual fit.

My advice: Be prepared, be genuine, and remember that the interview is also an opportunity for you to learn more about the school.

7. Should we contact the admission office if we have questions?

Absolutely, when you have a genuine question that is not already answered in the school's admissions materials. Admission offices manage a tremendous amount of information and communication during the application season. Before reaching out, review the website, application portal, and any instructions the school has provided.

When you do contact the office, keep your communication concise, courteous, and specific. Follow the school's stated communication guidelines and allow a reasonable amount of time for a response.

My advice: Thoughtful communication is always appreciated. You do not need to contact a school simply to remind them that you are interested; focus instead on asking meaningful questions and following the established process.

8. What is the most important thing to remember during the admissions process?

Remember that the goal is not simply to get your child into a particular school. It is to find an environment where your child can learn, grow, build relationships, and feel a sense of belonging. It is easy to become caught up in rankings, reputations, and what other families are doing. But every child is different, and the school that is right for one child may not be right for another. Take the time to identify your family's priorities, learn about different school communities, and consider where your child will thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. The admissions process requires effort, patience, and flexibility. With thoughtful preparation and a focus on fit, you can approach the journey with greater clarity and confidence.

A final thought: Every child is unique, and every school has something different to offer. Taking the time to understand who your child is, what they need, and where they will thrive is an important part of the school search process. The best school is not necessarily the one with the most accolades, but the one that feels like the right fit for your child and your family.