I’ve just read some random threads/posts which has led me to believe that some people need to read POST# 35 on this thread…
In fact, please read the entire thing! There’s a lot of wisdom woven into this thread from applicants/parents who have already gone through the process or… what I’d like to call the S-storm you now find yourself in … so listen to them!
Allow me to be candid about a few things:
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If you need ANY amount of FA, you will need to apply to a minimum of 10 schools. Yes, you heard me right. Ask for fee waivers, if you need them.
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If you’re a FP applicant ( who has had every advantage in the world ) and you’re applying for III or IV Form, you have some BIG competition to think about - namely all the kids applying from JBS and Private Day Schools. In other words- you’re going to need more schools on your apply-to list, too- even if you’re a legacy at one or two . Yeah, times have changed and both pools are crazy competitive so buckle up.
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The “IT” schools vary from year to year and they’re not always the usual suspects mentioned here . ONE EXAMPLE: Taft. Taft is currently an “IT” school, so if you’re applying to Groton, Deerfield, Exeter, SPS, or Andover with rockstar/ stellar stats… Taft is NOT your “safety” school. Make sense? Good.
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Schools currently not experiencing “IT” status in the Top 30-40 ( including some great single sex schools, too ) are NOT your “safety” school either. I know, right? They’re actually the first choice schools for many applicants with better stats than yours.
Hard to imagine but true!
Now, if you DON’T really need or want to go to BS and you’re a GO “HADES” or STAY HOME kid/ family because you’re blessed with a viable school option at home- by all means - roll the dice and good luck. But know this: Every single BS ( in the Top 40 ) had a record year for apps last year, so I’d recommend rethinking that approach now- ESPECIALLY if there’s even a sliver of a chance that you’ll be devastated if you’re completely shutout. Truth be told: This particular camp usually receives the least amount of sympathy because when faced with all WLs or Rejections on M10- suddenly they all want to go! Like clockwork.
Every. Single. Year. Kids: My parents would only let me apply to “Top Schools”. Parents: Will Pomfret take a late app???
I have no words. None.
Since I’m at home battling a wicked cold, I’ll offer some quick advice for interviews… not that anyone asked, but it might help someone. I just did a couple BS interviews as an alum last week so here are some things that I focus on.
It’s really important for an applicant to identify the things they’ve never done before and to express interest in exploring those things during an interview. It may be something like the opportunity to live away from home and learn independently , a unique program, particular club or course that sparked interest , or a sport that you’ve always wanted to try, but perhaps isn’t always offered everyday like squash, water polo or rowing. Maybe a combination of all the above in addition to what you already do best.
An applicant’s laundry list of accomplishments is always awesome, but let the illustrious past speak for itself later on on the app. You can certainly touch upon a few key things, but steer clear of making your past highlight reel the focal point of the interview. It’s also a conversation not an FBI interview so try to relax. Try to remember that a BS interview ( and ultimately the app ) is more about the future. BSs are actively looking for kids who are willing to try new things. Are you willing to get out of your comfort zone?
PLEASE NOTE: BS PLACEMENT has absolutely NOTHING to do with FUTURE COLLEGE PLACEMENT. It shouldn’t even be on your radar right now and a BS AO will probably think you’re somewhat certifiable if it is. They don’t appreciate parents pouring over their matriculation lists either, or asking about how many kids went to Harvard last year … so tell your folks to chill out when they’re brought in for their chat. Don’t enter into red flag or ROI territory. Don’t put the cart before the horse. Academics/ future college placement is actually a very small piece when compared to the personal growth piece . Read all the BS Mission Statements and you will find out what’s important to them.
If you DO get in, they’ll definitely let you know if you’re still Ivy material in V Form… so no worries…and besides- you have much bigger things to worry about … like surviving BS! Let’s see how that goes first. 
Recap: What brought you here? What makes you ready for this experience? Why this particular BS? If you’re not asked these questions directly during an interview, you will still need to make your case loud and clear on the app. How? Through your stats, essay(s), recommendations, life experiences… through your ECs and sports , and don’t forget the dreaded Parent Statement which is meant to compliment all the above ( because like it or not… they’re coming along for the ride, too! ). And, don’t forget to write your AO a nice thank you note. It goes into your file with everything else.
An applicant also needs to convey readiness throughout the process and how going to a BS is the LOGICAL next step. NOTE: The most amazing stats in the universe will not automatically translate into readiness or an acceptance. And believe me- a BS AO can spot an applicant who isn’t ready in under five minutes. Near perfect stats or a fab SSAT score will NOT save an applicant who isn’t ready to function independently or be successful away from home.
Tip: If you’re a parent of a "young " 7th or 8th grader and you’re already thinking about applying to SS for 9th, I’d advise you to consider JBS for repeat 8th or 9th. The experience for most kids is absolutely priceless. The Secondary School Placement and expertise is also priceless. In other words- Your child will have an amazing boarding experience and you won’t be throwing darts at secondary schools … plus, through your child’s JBS young alum and parent networks, sports and some ECs , you’ll have firsthand knowledge about culture and other elusive facts pertaining to most secondary schools- important things that you wouldn’t have known going into this process cold. Just throwing it out there, if you have any doubts about readiness.
Now, if an AO from any BS suggests another school or schools during an interview ( Have you looked at Kent or Tabor? ) listen to what they’re telling you and don’t be offended! They’re actually doing you a huge favor by steering you in another direction … which could ultimately be a much better fit! Does that mean that you shouldn’t submit an app to this school ? No, submit one regardless, if you wish, but I think it would behoove you to checkout Kent or Tabor! Especially since the recommendation came from someone with extensive BS/Admissions expertise. Go see if they’re right! Be open minded and willing to explore all the wonderful options out there!
And please remember: A BS interview is a two-way street. You’re there to collect vital information about them so think about what your needs are and take off the rose colored glasses ( if you have them on ). Make each school earn your app. You should also have a list of questions for an AO ready to go prior the interview . Not standard questions easily answered on their website ( sigh ), but questions uniquely tailored to your needs. And, for the Love of God, don’t get hung up on “tiers” or prestige when looking at a boarding school . It’s a recipe for disaster so be willing to think outside the big box schools and do your research. Your happiness ( which happens to be paramount to everything else ) absolutely depends on it.
Phew. I feel so much better now.
), or “ generous “ aid. All schools in the Top-30-40 are in the position to offer full or very generous aid .