Hi everyone — I’m applying to Phillips Exeter Academy for 9th grade and I’d really appreciate honest feedback. I go to the #2 middle school in the state and is known for being academically rigorous. I’ve had a rough academic journey, especially in 7th grade, but I’ve worked hard to improve and have made a strong comeback in 8th.
My SSAT score is in the 95th percentile. My interview went really well — I was confident, honest, and connected with the interviewer. I polished this post with help from Copilot to make sure I’m presenting everything clearly.
In 7th grade, my grades were mostly between 75 and 85, with a few lower outliers. In 8th grade, all my grades are currently 93 or above.
I also have good extracurriculars and a strong interest in finance and investing.
I know Exeter is extremely competitive and most applicants have stellar grades. But I’m hoping that my growth, SSAT score, extracurriculars, and the rigor of my school might give me a shot. Do I have a realistic chance? Has anyone with a similar profile been accepted? Any advice on how to frame my application would mean a lot. Thanks for reading.
Happy to clarify anything if needed.
Your grades and test scores will not disqualify you if you have something Exeter wants. Exeter is very selective, and the AOs will be trying to put together a class. What you can contribute to that is ultimately what will make the admissions decision.
If you really want to go to BS, you’ll want to cast a wider net.
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Thanks so much — that’s really helpful. I’ve been working hard to show growth and maturity, especially in my essay and interview. I understand Exeter is building a class, not just admitting stats, and I’m hoping my story and strengths can contribute something unique.
I’ll definitely look into other schools too. I’m just really drawn to Exeter’s culture and opportunities, so I wanted to give it my best shot.
Appreciate the advice — seriously.
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Thanks — do you think my scores and grades are okay overall? Has anyone gotten in with something similar?
Good news: There are certainly admitted students at Exeter (and peer schools) that have grades and stories like yours!
Bad news: There are also students who have grades and stories like yours and are denied admission.
The advice to cast a wide net is very wise and not a reflection of you or your strength as an applicant. It is an accurate picture of the landscape of competitive admission at schools today. You sound like a great applicant and any school would be lucky to have you. There are a lot of students (and parents!) here who have done this before who are happy to help and answer any questions you have. Good luck this admissions cycle!
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Love the enthusiasm. Make sure you frame your “strengths” in the context of how they will impact others, not how great you are. I don’t think having a 95% SSAT does anything for the people you’ll be in dorms, classrooms or playing fields with. If it can somehow, say so.
You have every right to apply and are a qualified candidate.
Good luck.
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You sound great, but I lean toward the grades being an issue for you to gain admission to Exeter. The “rough academic journey,” that you seem to have overcome, will need to be both understood and appreciated by admissions. This seems to happen far less often, from experience.
I would also suggest you stop using AI on this post. Use your 95th percentile SSAT brain.
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Are you willing to share specifics regarding the aspects of the culture that are attractive to you as well as what you perceive as opportunities at Exeter ?
I ask because you may be surprised at what other elite boarding schools offer in these areas.
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Definitely the Harkness method really appeals to me, and I love how Exeter fosters deep discussion and student-led learning. I’m also excited about the finance-related clubs and the freedom to explore interests independently. Open to hearing about other schools too.
Totally fair — I know Exeter looks for consistent academic strength, and I’m aware my 7th grade dip could be a concern. I’ve tried to make sure my application explains the context clearly and shows how I’ve grown from it. I really appreciate your honesty.
Thank you that really means a lot. I know how competitive it is, and I’m trying to stay grounded while still aiming high. I’ll definitely keep the wide net advice in mind and appreciate the support from everyone here.
more AI. cmon, you can do it. it is good practice!
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I’m not good at saying what I mean and it always comes out weird. I won’t use AI anymore, I’ll just write it myself.
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Also i go to th rogers and it’s known for being harder than most schools. my grades are still 90+ but not that high , and i feel like they would’ve been better if i went somewhere easier. is it okay to say that in my exeter app or does it just sound like i’m making excuses?
It sounds like an excuse. One, in fact, that you might start making at Exeter. You’d be better off showing excitement for the rigor and challenge than complaining about the grade that resulted from it.
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I mean, give the kid a break. They’re working it out real-time. Should they not use spellcheck either?
OP, basically it comes down to this:
Do you understand what this place is? Based on that, why do you think it would be a good fit for you and you for it? Can you do the work? What can you add to the community?
It would help if you have more background on yourself. Are from Alaska or Peru? That would be interesting. Are you an age-level champion fencer? That would get their attention. How have you moved past whatever it is that have you trouble in 7th grade (don’t need to go chapter and verse here on that). How can you demonstrate that you understand what life at Exeter (or anyplace you apply) requires holistically and you are up to the task?
These are the things you need to work on, in my opinion. As stated earlier, some folks who look like you on paper get in, some don’t. You have to sell it and hope for some luck.
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I don’t want that to be an issue in the Exeter process… only reason I care. It’s a thing right now. People need to learn and he wants to be accepted.
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DO NOT SAY THAT IN YOUR APPLICATION.
Show that you can handle the rigors of Exeter. Otherwise it’s excuse-making.
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Stop stealing my lines. I can only read but so quickly 
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