<p>Just a quick follow-up quest. on my 9th grader who wants to apply to a bunch of boarding schools for 10th-12th grade.</p>
<p>He just got his SSAT scores and finished w/2 perfects (800s) and one section with only a few wrong (all 99%). He's pretty excited now (re: his chances at admission, merit aid). I'm trying to keep things calm and not get his hopes up too high (he'll have 2 "Bs" [amid honors course As] this term...). I'm thinking this -probably- won't impact merit aid all that much? (we'd need a ton of it...!)</p>
<p>I so much appreciate the kind advice by everyone on boarding schools. Think this is my last question on the topic! :-)</p>
<p>Boarding schools do like students who test well, since SAT scores are one thing prospective (paying) parents look at. However, the chances for merit aid depend entirely on the school, so I can't help you there.</p>
<p>Those grades won't impact the application. The SSAT scores are nearly sure predictors of a future National Merit Scholar and they will help.</p>
<p>However, all the factors mentioned in previous posts still apply. He will be competing for aid regardless of his scores. He may get a full merit scholarship, but my guess is that you will be asked to pay for something.</p>
<p>Thanks! I guess it won't change our boarding school app. strategy (reluctantly going through the process; being fairly sure it won't work out because of finances, but being upfront w/son). </p>
<p>Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! :-)</p>