On this Easter Sunday I am reflecting on the Holy Trinity of private school admissions (TTR):
- Transcript
- Test
- Recommendations
Schools want to see good grades (nothing lower than a “B”), solid test scores (in the 80-90% range), and stellar teacher and supplemental recommendations.
Any cinch in this formula can jeopardize an otherwise solid application.
Strong grades signal that students take their school work seriously and put in hard work and maximum effort.
Strong test scores signal that students have solid skills. Strong test takers coming in the door will likely be strong test takers going out the door. These students will have strong SAT and ACT scores, and will be admitted to top colleges and universities, which will in turn make their high school look good.
Poor teacher recommendations can sink an otherwise solid candidate. Recommendations are critical in this process! If a teacher speaks badly of a student, they are done. Many admissions directors tell me that often a teacher will not put negative information in writing, they will invite the director to call them and they will give them an earful on the phone that will end the student’s chances of being admitted to the school of their choice. Your child’s math and English teachers must like your child – better yet, they must love your child.
Parents often are required to waive their right to ever read the teacher recommendations. The schools take the recommendation so seriously that they do everything they can to get honest feedback from the teachers about the applicant.
Focus on the Holy Trinity and you will gain admission to the kingdom of private school heaven!
Anne Yount Boston ISEE Prep 617-553-8083 www.bostoniseeprep.com - Test Prep for the ISEE & Latin School Exam Boston Tutoring Center 617-553-8083 www.bostontutoringcenter.com - Tutoring Grades K-12 Boston Private School Search 617-553-0540 www.bostonprivateschoolsearch.com - Your Resource for Private School Admissions Follow my Blog - http://privateschoolguru.com/blog/