Help on starting the process late

<p>I am considering/planning to apply to boarding schools for Sophomore year. My parents haven't completely been on board, which is why I am starting so late. I have a broad range of schools I like, but I still have to arrange tours/interviews, take the SSAT, and give my recs to teachers. On this website, I have seen quite a few success stories of last minute applications but they do not seem easy whatsoever. </p>

<p>Any tips on studying for the SSAT last minute? Also, I will be going to the Boston area for Christmas break (family there) which works out well because all the schools I am looking at are either in that area or near me (1-2 midatlantic). Any tips or strategies for tours and interviews? Any advice on the admission process will be welcomed!</p>

<p>BS PARENTS AND KIDS if your child took the SSAT in janurary, did the results get to the schools on time?</p>

<p>Ok, most schools are closed during Xmas break and that means you have to schedule for december and make plans now or make plans for January. The SSAT will depend on you and what kind of kid you are. If you know the material already and just need time to assimilate yourself with the format and getting used to the times and all that than 1 winter break should be fine. However, if you need to learn material, don’t expect to much since that January SSAT is going to be like the 1st or second weekend. Also, the scores will probably come back after January 15 but if you call the AO’s and explain to them your situation, it most likely wont hurt your application and they will be fine taking a January score.</p>

<p>Jan SSAT is just fine. DS took the Jan test, and all the schools were OK w it. </p>

<p>The schools are CLOSED during Xmas Break. There will be no one in the Admissions Office-- the AOs have a life, too. </p>

<p>You must do the tour/interview outside the break period. I would get on the phone ASAP to schedule an appointment, as the admissions calendar is VERY FULL during Dec-Jan and they can accommodate only a certain number of interviews per day.</p>

<p>You need to get your parents on board, because they too will be interviewed during the visit. The AOs are dealing w hundreds of eager families and will not waste an offer of admission on an applicant who will is unlikely to enroll because parents do not support it.</p>

<p>some schools offer interviews and tours after the application deadline. for instance, I’m having one of my interviews 1/23/2014</p>