I’m an 8th grade student and I’m applying for boarding schools to better my education. My main school is Culver, and I’m wondering what the chances are for me to get in.
I’m an all A student taking 3 high school classes (Algebra 1, Spanish 1, and Intro to 2D Art). As of now, my lowest grade is a 93 percent.
My SSAT scores haven’t came in yet, but I am confident about them. The test was fairly easy and I understood the material. I can post a comment with my score when it comes in.
I’ve done numerous extracurriculars. I’ve ran cross country for two years, played basketball for three, thrown discus for two, and I’m planning on playing goalie for our county’s travel soccer team this year. I’ve participated in my school’s spelling and geography bees once each. I’m also the president of my school’s NJHS chapter.
Do I have a chance of getting into my dream school?
I forgot to add that I’m 100 percent sure my recommendation letters are going to be very positive. My teachers love me and all think I’m a good student and perfect for Culver.
I can’t say what your chances are for admission, but you sound like a strong and engaged student which should serve you well. Are you applying to any other schools just in case? It’s nice to hear about Culver here on this forum, I would say that it’s one of those “hidden gems” that don’t get much air time here despite the fact that it is a well established school with an endowment-per-student on par with the likes of Choate and Lawrenceville. I know some alums and have heard from them that the alumni network is strong. And apparently the horse stables are unbelievable.
I’d like to apply for other schools, but Culver’s right next to my town and they give a lot of financial aid.
I understand. Looking farther away from home is tough unless you are particularly drawn to the “away” boarding school experience. Hopefully you have good local options as well. You might find it interesting to look at websites for other schools while you wait for your SSAT scores to come back. The scores will help you get a better sense of the range of schools that would be a match for you. There are also many schools that provide good amounts of financial aid, again just need to look. Best of luck to you!
In case you haven’t been here already: http://www.boardingschoolreview.com/
Almost forgot–have you been in touch with any of the coaches for the sports you hope to pursue if you are admitted? If you can contribute to the program(s) that might help with admissions/financial aid.
Yes, I spoke with the cross country and basketball coaches during my campus visit. I find out my SSAT scores next Saturday or before. Thanks for the advice!
Okay my SSAT scores are in. I scored a 2151, which is in the 84th percentile for all 8th graders and 85th for 8th grade females. I got a 76th percentile on my verbal, a 78th on my quantitive, and a 90th on my reading.
Boarding School Review doesn’t list an average SSAT score for Culver, but I’ve seen several posts on CC which suggest that mid-80’s is a good score for many schools. Obviously I can’t make any predictions but I think you are in a good place for getting into Culver and if you want to look at other schools I think you would be a good candidate.
Thank you for your input! It’s making me feel a little better about applying. I might look into a few other schools that aren’t too far from home, maybe in Illinois.